Raymond A. ’Ray’ Carlson

Raymond Ray Arthur Carlson, 70, was born to Alfred and Alice Taasaas Carlson at the family farm at Wolverton, MN, on March 26, 1938. Ray was being cared for at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, MN for leukemia when he passed away on November 16, 2008.Ray grew up in Wolverton, MN and attended school there, graduating in 1956. Ray served in the Marine Corps after graduation from 1956 until 1958.On November 1st, 1958, Ray married Loretta Bakke at Hickson Lutheran Church. After they married, Ray started working for Johnson Controls in 1958 and retired after 35 years of service with the same company. While working at Johnson Controls, Ray earned his Bachelor's Degree at Minnesota State University Moorhead. After retirement Ray served as a board member for Cass Rural Water District for 12 years, until the time of his death.Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing in Canada with his son & friends, and golfing until his back wouldn't allow it. Ray also enjoyed spending time at Cormorant Lake at their cabin that they had for years, with family and friends. After retiring, Ray enjoyed woodcarving with his specialty being crosses and hearts. Ray is survived by his wife of 50 years, Loretta, Hickson, ND; children, Randy Susie McDowell Carlson, Moorhead, MN, Renee deceased Bob Schwandt, Kindred, ND, Susan Tim Blinn, Moorhead, MN, and Amy Kevin O'Neill, Lakeville, MN. 9 grandchildren, Jessica and Jared Schwandt, Courtney, Levi and Denver Blinn, and John, Kit, Lynne and Carly O'Neill; two step grandchildren, Jessica Tim Halbakken and Molly Mike Johnson; one step-great-grandchild, Palmer Halbakken; brothers, Robert Ruth Carlson, Tucson, AZ, Charles Karol Carlson, Detroit Lakes, MN, and Gary Marlys Carlson, Pelican Rapids, MN. He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Renee.