Raymon Ronald Reid

Raymon Ronald Reid was born May 12, 1926, in Egeland, North Dakota. He graduated from Cando High School, then worked on local farms prior to joining the U.S. Navy- late summer of 1944. Ray spent time in the sunny Philippines, Japan and Hawaii (courtesy of the U.S. Navy) before being discharged summer of 1946. After graduating college and marrying Ruby Bjornstad (In June 1950), he then started his teaching career. In late summer of 1958, Ray and Ruby moved to Chinook. Ray said, "When I saw the Bear Paw mountains, I had found my new home".

Ray's 32-year teaching career included teaching: Industrial Arts, Earth science, Biology, Chemistry, and Math. Besides teaching, Ray was a high school wrestling coach and was able to coach in five different decades-starting in the mid 1960's and ending in early 2000's. His passion was to mentor young men and help them stay on the right path in life. Ray was deeply involved with the Boy Scouts, VFW, Blaine County Fair and the community at large. Ray was a driving force for many years ensuring that the County Fair and Rodeo were a success. He enjoyed woodworking, Missouri River trips, camping, and helping out throughout the community. Ray was a lifelong Red Cross blood donor, giving as often and as long as he was able to. His total blood donation was 15+ gallons.

After retiring from teaching, Ray was looking for a new project, so he became a court bailiff.

He soon realized that young people coming through the system were not always being properly represented so he also became a "guardian ad litem" to offer assistance when needed.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents; nine brothers and sisters; his wife of 63 years Ruby; infant daughter Patricia; and grandson Taylor.

Ray is survived by his sons, Michael, Ronald, Brian, Barry and Robert, 10 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren. Ray would often say, "I guess I am responsible for this bunch"! Ray was often seen attending to the flags on main street, trimming trees and shoveling snow for neighbors. Ray enjoyed coffee and practical jokes with his friends.

A viewing was held from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, Friday, October 17th, at Wilderness Funeral Homes. A funeral service was held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, October 18th, at the American Lutheran Church in Chinook. Graveside service followed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Chinook Food Pantry in honor of Ray and Ruby Reid.