Walter Alvin Ramsdell

Walter A. Ramsdell, age 83, a lifelong resident of Hayward, WI, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Essentia, St. Mary’s Medical Center, in Duluth, MN, surrounded by his loving family.

Walter Alvin Ramsdell was born April 5, 1942, in Hayward, WI the son of Walter and Bertha Ramsdell, Sr. Walter was raised in Hayward, WI, where he attended school and developed a deep connection to the Northwoods way of life from an early age. In his youth he played the bugle for the Hayward Drum and Bugle corp. He enjoyed the outdoors and spent time hunting, fishing and trapping. He began his career as a skilled machinist, in the Milwaukee area where he met his wife, Audrey Zeugner. They were married in 1970 and soon after, made the decision to return to Walter’s beloved hometown of Hayward to raise their family. Upon returning to Hayward, Walter worked for Tony Wise at Telemark Resort in Cable, WI.  After 10 years at Telemark, Walter began work as a maintenance supervisor for Sawyer County, retiring after 20 years. Walter spent many years as a volunteer emergency medical technician helping others in need.  His appreciation for music was also a significant part of his life, a love that was instilled in him at an early age by his father. He was a natural musician who enjoyed singing and playing the guitar, talented enough to play entirely by ear.  He was incredibly proud of his family.  He will be remembered as a good provider, someone who always enjoyed the company of friends, with a true appreciation for the simple pleasures of the outdoors and music. 

Walter is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years Audrey, six children, Bethany (Melvin) Carlson of Medford, WI, Natalie (Bryn Lierman) Ramsdell of Eau Claire, WI, Bryan Ramsdell of Wausau, WI, Christine (Doug)  Stark, Catherine (Curt) Becker both of Hayward, WI, and Carolyn (Tim) Seidl of Springbrook, WI; fourteen grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; one sister, LaVerda Luedtke of Hayward; one sister-in-law, Joyce Unger of Pillager, MN and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Delores Rehor.

A funeral service will be held for Walter at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at Hayward Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Hilgendorf officiating.  A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.  Interment will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Hayward.

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