After a 12-year battle with the debilitating disease ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), Robert Rayl passed from this earth on Aug. 19, 2023, at home, in the arms of his wife.
Robert was born in Pensacola, Florida, on Aug. 24, 1962, to Theodore and Roberta Rayl. He spent his first four years in Japan, where his father served as a Navy pilot during the Vietnam War.
Robert spent most of his growing-up years in Palmdale, California, until, at the age of 17, he proudly joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He spent most of his deployment in Okinawa, Japan, until he was honorably discharged in 1986. He carried great pride in his service as a Marine for the rest of his life. Robert returned to Palmdale and worked with his father in the HVAC field until 1992.
In 1992, he moved to Evanston, and a couple of years later started Robert Rayl Heating, Cooling and Appliance Repair. He was very fond of his customers and truly enjoyed his ability to fix almost anything that was broken. He worked happily until 2020, when his medical issues became too severe and he was forced to retire.
Robert spent 27 years as a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Evanston Aerie #2359, and became the Wyoming State President for 2015-16. He spent many years traveling throughout Wyoming and other states for Eagles functions, where he developed deep friendships, made treasured memories and helped raise money for various charities.
In the last few years as his health deteriorated, he was unable to attend meetings and functions but he always kept his Eagle heart. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.
Robert was an avid woodworker and spent many happy hours enhancing his home inside and outside. He made pens, darts, clocks, bowls and anything else he could dream up for as long as he was able to. He definitely had a passion for working with his lathe. He was very creative and proud of his handy work.
Robert faced each new challenge from ALS with hope, humor and a neverending willingness to fight his disease with all the strength he could summon. He was an inspiration to all who knew him well for the spirit he displayed up to his final breath.
Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Roberta Rayl; numerous aunts and uncles; and his niece, Megan (Plowman) Widmer.
He is survived by his wife, Kayleen (Jacobson) Rayl; his father, Ted; his sister, Deb (Rick) Plowman; children, Justin, Jaime and Amanda; and a stepson, Shane (Heidi) Beach. He also left behind eight grandchildren, Javin, Madyson, Wyatt, Jade Lynn, August, Jayden, Levi and Lexi.
We are forever grateful to the ALS clinic at the VA in Salt Lake City for the help they provided us. His ALS coordinator at the VA, Alicia Smith, was at his side with help and information every step of the way. She was truly an angel for us.
Thanks also to Cowboy Cares. Their response to our needs was immediate and thorough. What a wonderful group they are.
A very special thanks goes to Ann Bushnell, Dave Biebinger and Irene Osborne for always showing him so much love. They will forever be family.
There will be a celebration of life for Robert on Saturday, Aug. 3. The VFW will provide his military honors at the courthouse at 4 p.m., followed by an open house at the Eagles (921 Front St.). Please come share your memories.
