Marion Hesker Raef, son of Gus and Nellie (Hesker) Raef, was born August 1, 1941, in Lebanon, Missouri. He passed away Thursday, July 9, 2026, in Mercy Hospital in Lebanon, Missouri. He was eighty-four years, eleven months and eight days of age.
Marion was raised in Lebanon and was baptized early in life by Rev. J.L. Stone. He was a member of First Congregational Church.
Marion graduated from Lebanon High School in the class of 1959. On April 27, 1962, he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Virginia Blakeley. Together they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with family, faith, hard work, laughter and love.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Nellie Raef; his son, Kent, in 2020; and an infant brother.
Marion is survived by his loving wife, Virginia, of the home; a daughter, Beth Raef Walker; three grandsons, Nathan Raef and his wife Stephanie, Justin Raef and his wife Kayln, and Ethan Walker and his wife Brenna; two great-grandchildren, Everett Raef and Daisy Walker; his brother, Donnie Raef and his wife Kay; his daughter-in-law, Kate Raef; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
Marion had a passion for farm life and was a farmer his entire life. He milked cows for over fifty years. He also raised and bred Fox Trotter horses. He was very proud of his horses and took great pride in them.
In addition to farming, Marion was a skilled and talented carpenter. He also did masonry work, building many fireplaces, chimneys and flues in the area.
Marion was past-president of the Laclede County Farm Bureau, Lebanon Livestock Association, and was instrumental in getting the agricultural farm started for the Lebanon FFA when the Livestock Association disbanded.
Marion was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He was a caring and trusted neighbor and friend. He was a good, honorable man who loved and trusted God, worked hard, and always tried to do the right thing. His passing is sad for his family and friends, but we rejoice in his homecoming where he is now with his savior, his parents, and other family members.
Funeral services for Marion Hesker Raef were held Monday, July 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Holman-Howe Funeral Home. Visitation was Monday, July 13, from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial was in Atchley Cemetery.
A memorial to Atchley Cemetery or the Lebanon FFA has been established and donations may be left at the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon.
For more information or to visit the website go to www.holmanhowe.com.
July 14, 2026 Update: Updated text, formatting, subheading, and photos.
