Obituary

Ray Zivney, 95, of Sun City AZ & Minonk, IL passed away on March 27th, 2017. Cremation rites have been accorded. Services in IL are pending. Menke Funeral Home of Sun City is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ray was born on Feb. 7, 1922 in Alma Center, WI., the son of Arthur and Esther (Swendsen) Zivney. He married Emily R Danekas on Nov. 7, 1948. She preceded him in death on Feb. 13, 2011. Surviving are his children, Jeff of Sun City, AZ; Jane (Jay Willey) Amigoni of Cape Girardeau, MO. Seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded on death by his wife, parents, one brother and sister and a daughter-in-law. Ray was a member of Lakeview United Methodist Church in AZ and Minonk United Methodist Church in IL.

Ray along with his father, brother and sister, started Minonk Dairy Products, later renamed Zivney Cheese Co., in the 1980's when Jeff took over. He was a member of the Masonic Temple. He was a lifelong member of the American Dairy Assoc., and in 2005 was awarded with a lifetime achievement award from Wisconsin Cheese Makers Assoc. First one ever given to someone outside of WI. He was always very proud of all his and his business awards.

Ray was an avid golfer and still played couple of times a week until late last year. He was a master woodworker, his specialty was his beautiful wood inlay bowls. He loved giving his grandchildren rides in the golf cart as they were growing up. He and Emily loved to travel and to serve the Lord.

Last October he finally got to see his beloved Chicago Cubs win the World Series. His and Emily's name were written on the wall in Chicago by a granddaughter.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather & great grandfather. Our family would like to extend our gratitude to Abrazo West Campus Trauma Center in Goodyear, AZ for the care they provided in those final hours.

Memorials can be made to the donors choice.

Thank you Dad and Mom for a wonderful life!