Raymond Gedde

Raymond Wesley Gedde, 89, of Pillager, MN died on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at his home. Funeral services for Ray will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at 11:00 AM at First Lutheran Church in Pillager, with Pastor Hector Merced officiating, with visitation on Monday, February 10, 2014 from 5-7 PM at Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter, MN. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Wildwood Cemetery in Pillager, MN.

Ray was born on January 11, 1925 to George and Anna Gedde near Wadena, MN. He grew up in the Wadena area and attended a one-room school in Ottertail County where he completed the eighth grade. Ray worked on the family farm, until he was drafted into the Army at age 20. After completing his Army service, Ray eventually ended up moving to Pillager where he was a partner with his brother, George in the Gambles Hardware store. Ray then met Jane LaPorte and they married in 1952 and made their home in Pillager. Shortly after they were married, Ray began working for the Minnesota State Highway Department and worked for them for 29 years. Throughout their marriage, Ray and Jane enjoyed being able to travel to destinations such as Caribbean cruises, trips to Europe and various locations in the United States. Ray was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Retired State Employees Association and was on the First Lutheran Church council for many years. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, bingo, dancing and going to grandchildren's events and spending time with his family.

Ray is survived by his wife, Jane of Pillager; children, Mary (Gerhard) Bergmann of Milaca, MN, Ronald (Melanie) Gedde of Becker, MN; grandchildren, Amanda (Joshua) Hemsworth, Jacob Nelson, Nichole Johnson, Eric Johnson,Scott Gedde, Madison Gedde; four great grandchildren, Javan, Elias, Asa and Analise Hemsworth; sister, Gladys Berg of Pelican Rapids, MN. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Clifford, Walter, Alfred, Ellsworth, Melvin, Levi, George, Harold; sisters, Jessie, Agnes, Esther, Evelyn; and infant granddaughter, Katrina Rae Nelson. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter, MN.