Raymond Harold Reed

1/1/1927 - 9/20/2020

Ray was the stereotypical ornery old Norweigan (you would be hard pressed to find someone to disagree). He grew up in Wrenshall, Minnesota on a farm he shared with his parents Willam and Randi, and siblings Frank, Lloyd (Bud), Floyd, Gina, Phil, Clarice, Bill and Cliff. He roamed the countryside and hunted the hills and firmly lodged a piece of his heart there. Ray served a stint in the Navy on the USS Cabot at the tail end of WWII. He saw no combat but cruised the world. After completing his naval tour, he eventually returned home to Wrenshall. He was well on his way to becoming an old Norwegian bachelor , but at 42 married Irene and they started building a new life together.

Ray and Irene moved to Pike Lake where they raised two kids, Matt and Jane. He taught them to work hard, to be honest, and to appreciate what’s important in life: being playful and having fun. At 56, his long time employer, Minnesota Power, bought out his contract and he retired to his woods and his garages and his vegetable garden. Ray was content.

Despite his tough exterior, Ray had a good heart and was filled with mischief. It wasn’t uncommon for him to be the instigator of water and snow fights. And he was always cracking little jokes, gently teasing and trying to cajole a smile. Tired of hunting, he loved watching the deer and the critters, and was always happy to sit down to one of Irene’s good homemade meals.

At 93 years old Ray was ready to go. He missed Irene, had lived his life, and was tired. And the universe granted him his wish. Those wishing him goodbye include Matt, his wife Jennifer and their kids Jocelyn and Jillian, Jane and her fella Rick Kollath, Sister Clarice (Jim) Feigleson, brothers William (Barbara) and Clifford (Deanie), sister-in-law Betty Lamppa, and piles of nieces and nephews.

Ray was a solitary guy. In lieu of a service, we ask you to take solace in the woods, through the swing of an axe, or by enjoying a good meal with someone you love. Enjoy some photos of Ray at www.rayreed.site.

We love you Ray. Safe travels.