M.C. 'Joe' Rayer

M.C. 'Joe' Rayer

Dec. 19, 1934 - Nov. 5, 2014

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- M.C. "Joe" Rayer, Ph.D., age 79, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, originally from Indianola, Nebraska, died Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2014, at Northbrook Manor Care Center from complications of dementia.

A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. today, Nov. 10, 2014, at All Saints Catholic Church Chapel, officiated by the Rev. John R. Flaherty. The family greeted friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Military honors were provided by the American Legion. Refreshments and a light lunch were served following the memorial service. Visitation was Sunday at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Joe was born Dec. 19, 1934, in Indianola, Nebraska, to Maurice and Elsie (Colling) Rayer. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska Kearney, a Master of Science degree from the University of Notre Dame, and he earned his Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He served honorably as a radioman in the United States Navy from 1956 until 1962.

Joe worked at the Grant Wood AEA for 23 years as a technology consultant. He was a member of the Toastmasters. Joe enjoyed watching sports. His greatest joys were family get-togethers, and having a beer with his sons.

He is survived by four sons, Mark Rayer of Cedar Rapids, Edward Redbird of Cedar Rapids, David Rayer of Galveston, Texas, and Brett (Robyn) Rayer of Cedar Rapids; three grandchildren, Ashley Rayer of Cedar Rapids and Jayden and Treyton Emrich of Marion; two brothers, James Rayer of Lincoln, Nebraska, and Richard (Jane) Rayer of Indianola, Nebraska; and sister, Mary (Albert) Hayes of Cambridge, Nebraska.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Robyn Rayer for her love, strength and assistance during Joe's final days, and also to UnityPoint Hospice and Northbrook Manor Care Center.

Condolences may be expressed at www.iowacremation.com

Iowa Cremation is in charge of arrangements.