Middle River - Ray H. Ness, 60, died unexpectantly on Friday, August 22, 1997 near Strathcona.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 26 at 2 p.m. at First Lutheran Church in Middle River with Pastor John Jorgenson officiating. Lois Peterson was the organist and Lois Anderson, the soloist. Casketbearers were Don Larson, Kenney Cwikla, Brian Aune, Gary Hammer, Jerry Aune and Jim Larson. Interment was at Riverside Cemetery in Middle River. Arrangements were with Collins Funeral homes of Karlstad, Greenbush and Middle River.
Ray Harold Ness was born on October 14, 1936 in Marshall County near Newfolden, the son of Alfred and Esther (Lane ) Ness. As a child he moved with his family to Middle River where he attended school and grew to manhood. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church.
On July 21, 1957, he was united in marriage to Carol Aune at the Evangelical Free Church in Newfolden. They made their home at Warren for a short time, then at Crookston for two years, prior to returning to Middle River where they have since resided. In addition to farming, Ray drove milk truck for 40 years &endash; 34 of those years for Land O'Lakes at Roseau.
He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, hunting and farming.
Ray is survived by his wife, Carol; three sons, Elwin (DeDe) of McIntosh, DelRay (Barb) of Thief River Falls and Bradley (Marie) of Middle River; six grandchildren; his mother, Esther of Middle River; one brother, Marvin of Middle River; one sister, Florence (Glen) Hammer of Badger; and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his father, Alfred.