Douglas Raygor, 81, Owatonna

Douglas Sansen Raygor, 81, long-time resident of Owatonna, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Doug was born Feb. 25, 1943, in Coon Rapids, Iowa, where he grew up on a farm, and later moved to Owatonna in 1961.

Doug’s career in law enforcement spanned 31 years, beginning as a police officer for the Owatonna Police Department, then as deputy sheriff for Steele County, and eventually he became an investigator specializing in crimes against children. In that position, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with children in need. He retired in 1995.

Doug was also a Master Mason with the Star in the East Lodge #33 of Owatonna. He enjoyed working with mechanical systems and was passionate about small engine maintenance. At one point, he owned a Cessna T-37 “Tweety Bird,” a small twin-engine trainer aircraft and had a private pilot’s license. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing poker, restoring old Chevy’s, taking trips to Las Vegas, camping, stock car racing and riding motorcycles.

He is survived by his devoted and “perfect” wife of 62 years, Mary Lue; his son Keith Alan and wife, Lauren; daughter Karla Anne and her friend Merle Benes; and grandchildren: Zachary, Hannah and Mitchel.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.