Raymond Willmott, 79, Owatonna
Raymond J. Willmott passed away Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Benedictine Living Community in Owatonna.
Ray was born Feb. 25, 1945, in White, S.D., to Harry and Mary Ellen Willmott. He graduated from White High School with the class of 1963. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965, serving Honorably until 1969. While in the Navy, Ray served on the USS Benjamin Stoddert DDG-22. Following his discharge, Ray attended Mankato State University, receiving his Pilot’s License in 1971.
Ray was married to Jeanne Stadler on January 8, 1971, in Mankato. Following the marriage, they made their home in Mankato. The couple had three children: Robert, Tricia, and Amy.
The family moved to the Brookings, S.D. area in 1976, and in 1983 they relocated to Owatonna. Ray was owner-operator of MINDAK, a business he created and developed throughout the years. In the early years, he repaired typewriters, and later sold and serviced computers. Eventually, he assisted families in memorializing their loved ones with monuments and markers. He was the Forest Hill Cemetery sexton and manager from 2001 – 2024.
Ray was the president of R.O.B. (Reaching Others from Beyond), a nonprofit organization that was established in memory of his son, Rob. Ray was a member of Owatonna Knights of Columbus, as well as the Henry Speck Assembly of the 4th Degree. He was also a member of the Owatonna Eagles Club, V.F.W. Club, American Legion, Steele County Funeral Unit and an usher for St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was a life member of the Elks Club and Disabled American Vets of South Dakota. Ray was one of the founding members of the Owatonna Chapter of The Compassionate Friends. In his spare time, Ray enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing and most of all spending fun times with his many friends and family.
Ray is survived by wife, Jeanne, of 53 years, daughters: Tricia (David) Noyce and Amy Lien, both of Owatonna; grandchildren: Andrew Noyce (significant other, Allison McDonough), Brianna Noyce, Zachary Noyce, Morgan Lien, and Elizabeth Joslyn; and siblings Pat (Dave) Landsman and Carol (George) Covrig. He also leaves behind his mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.
He was preceded in death by son, Robert (Rob), his parents, five sisters and three brothers.
Mass of Christian Burial is set for Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 S. Elm, Owatonna. Burial to follow at Forest Hill Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the Steele County Funeral Unit. The Owatonna Knights of Columbus will recite the Rosary at 9 a.m. Saturday at the church. Friends may greet the family beginning at 9:15 a.m. and continuing until the time of Mass.
Memorials are preferred to St. Joseph Catholic Church or the VA Fischer House. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.