Raymond "Jim" Dougherty

Raymond “Jim” Dougherty, 86, of Waukon, formerly of Dorchester, died Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at his home. Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 17 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon with Fr. John Moser officiating. Burial with military honors was at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Waukon. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon handled arrangements.

Raymond “Jim” James Dougherty was born January 23, 1937 in Waukon, the son of Emmet G. and Irene (Bresnahan) Dougherty. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon, attended country schools near Waukon, and graduated from St. Patrick Catholic High School in 1955. He then farmed with his parents and in 1960 went to military basic training in Missouri and AIT training for four months in Norfolk, VA, before becoming a reservist for six years out of Prairie du Chien, WI.

September 23, 1961, Jim married Ilene Marie Cavanaugh. They farmed together for over 50 years near Dorchester until moving to Waukon in 2021. After retiring from the farm, Jim worked at the Camp Tahigwa Girl Scout camp as a groundskeeper, truly enjoying his time there. Jim was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dorchester. He loved spending time with his adoring wife, Ilene, as well as their faithful dog, Lucky. Jim enjoyed taking Ilene to dances and going for drives around the countryside. He was a very loving, patient caretaker for Ilene during her last few years.

Jim is survived by his sister-in-law, Rita Dougherty; many nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 60 years, Ilene Marie; and his siblings: Mary (Mark) Wagner, Donald and John Dougherty, Alice (Clarence) Johnson, Lela (John) Urell, Joe (Jean) Dougherty and Helen (Mark) Kelley.

Honorary casketbearers were Charles Johnston and Ken Johnston. Casketbearers were Donnie Johnson, Scott Dougherty, Ben Wagner, Kurt Cavanaugh, Bill Johnston and Dave Urell.

Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.