Raymond "Ray" Grudem

Raymond Edward Grudem entered his heavenly home on February 27, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family. Ray was born October 20, 1941, in Freda, ND to E. Milton and Palma (Nesja) Grudem. He grew up on a farm and began working hard as a young boy, continuing to help his father with farm work even while attending college. Following graduation from Flasher High School, he attended Dickinson State College and graduated in 1964 with a B.S. degree in Music Education and a minor in Business Administration. He earned a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from NDSU in 1971.

Ray married Lucretia Linson on June 25, 1967, at Valle Lutheran Church in Rolette, ND, where he was band instructor at Rolette Public School at the time. He also held teaching positions in New England, Gackle, and Tioga. Later he taught at Minot College of Business and at Minot Public Schools, including Jim Hill Junior High for ten years and Memorial Junior High at Minot Air Force Base for twelve years. His career in education ranged from teaching band, business, mathematics, and business law, to coaching football. He most enjoyed listening to and encouraging young people, which prompted the pursuit of guidance and counseling. Ray was a member and held the office of Vice President of the ND School Counselor’s Association – Jr. High Division. After ten years in counseling, he took a sabbatical and obtained his real estate license and sold Real Estate for a couple of years. He also served as manager for the VA properties in Minot, which he oversaw for many years.

Ray and Lucretia spent most of their married life in Minot, where they raised their family. While there, he was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, served on the church council, and taught Sunday School and Confirmation. His faith was very important to him. Ray loved people and was quick to reach out whenever he saw a need. He enjoyed visiting, joking, and laughing over coffee. Along with family, his close friends were a highlight of his life.

In 2006, Ray and Lucretia moved to Argusville, ND to be closer to family. Here they connected to wonderful friends through family, church, and their neighborhood. Ray’s hobbies included fishing, camping, hunting, woodworking, and small engine repair. He was a loving and devout husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He cherished the precious times with his grandkids, whether fishing, hunting, attending school events, music concerts, or figure skating competitions.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of nearly fifty-nine years, daughter Joan Quam of Harwood; sons Jon (Jackie) of Dakota Dunes, SD; Steve (Maidie) of West Fargo; six grandchildren, Sophie and Charlie Quam, Alyson (Nathan) Daninger, Zachary (Ali) Grudem, Claire and Kate Grudem; great-grandchildren Josephine, Bennett, Naomi, Joshua, and Grace; brother Marvin; brothers-in-law Gary and Bill Linson; sister-in-law Patty Linson and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Marion Vandenburg and Jewel Hervey; and brother-in-law, Larry Linson. Ray will be lovingly missed and fondly remembered by all his family and friends.

The family would like to thank you for all your love and support through this difficult time. Please join us following the service for lunch and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Zion Lutheran Church, American Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice.

Celebration of Life Service:   Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11 AM, at Zion Lutheran Church, Harwood, ND, with visitation one hour before the service.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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