Fred Raunig, Jr.

Fred A. Raunig, age 94, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2005, at St. Patrick Hospital.

Fred was born on July 14, 1931, in Great Falls, Montana, to Fred Sr. and Clara Raunig. At the age of 11, he moved with his family to Stockett, Montana, where he grew up on the Raunig ranch and completed his education. He later began an apprenticeship as a lineman with Lewis Construction Company, starting a lifelong career in the power and construction industry.

In April of 1951, Fred enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in April of 1954.

Fred married Juanita McKell on January 15, 1953. Together, they raised two sons, Gary and Fred.

Fred continued his career with Lewis Construction, and later with Montana Power Company. Following the tragic passing of his son Gary, Fred and Juanita moved back to Great Falls, where Fred continued working for the power company. In 1976, they relocated to Missoula, Montana, where Fred served as a City Foreman and Safety Director until his retirement on July 31, 1992.

After retirement, Fred and Juanita embraced travel, spending many years touring in their motorhome. They worked with a tour company, traveling extensively from South America to the North Pole in Alaska, and spent several winters in Mazatlán, Mexico, as well as throughout the southern United States.

Fred was deeply committed to service and community. A proud Marine for life, he was actively involved in Toys for Tots and was instrumental in the development of the Korean War Memorial at Rose Park in Missoula.

Fred and his brother Dale also purchased the family cabin at Swan Lake, a place that became the setting for countless cherished memories shared with friends and family.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Sr. and Clara Raunig; his beloved wife Juanita; his son Gary; and his brother Dale.

He is survived by his son Fred (Pattie); his grandchildren Shaun (Lisa) and Freddy (Misty); and his great-grandchildren Aly, Bryce, Jaycee, and Parker. He is also survived by his Brother Richard and sisters Jean, Joann, Connie, Sharon and Patty.

Fred loved deeply, lived fully, and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He will be remembered for his dedication to family, service to country, commitment to safety and hard work, and the many lives he touched throughout his 94 years.

A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will be held in the Spring of 2026.