Raymond R. Thorbjornsen

Raymond R. Thorbjornsen, age 94, of 5720 Pine 0.25 Street in Gladstone, passed away Friday, March 1, 2019 at Cedar Hill Assisted Living in Bark River, surrounded by family. He was born on December 13, 1924 in Escanaba, the son of Fredrik and Jennette (Tapingten) Thorbjornsen. Ray grew up and attended school in Escanaba. He was a World War II veteran, where he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 until 1946. He married the former Elizabeth “Betty” Lindquist on April 24, 1945 in San Diego, CA and she preceded him in death on April 27, 1990. Together, the couple shared 45 years of marriage and raised 3 children. Ray was a dedicated employee of 33 years at Mead Paper in Escanaba, working first as a hydroelectric dam operator at the No. 1 Dam and later, as a turbine operator at the central station. After Ray retired, he remained a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to the family, was a lifelong and faithful member to Immanuel Lutheran Church, enjoyed daily walks, and tinkering in his wood shop. Ray enjoyed 5 decades of traveling and camping with his family, and as their children moved on, he continued his travels with Betty, the love of his life, touring the United States. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, the Mead 25 Year Club, Amvets Post 123, and the American Legion.

Raymond R. Thorbjornsen is survived by his son, Richard (Vickie) Thorbjornsen of Park Falls, WI; daughter, Carole LaBay of Gladstone; son-in-law, Raymond (Gillian) Krusing of Mckinney, TX; 9 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Raymond was preceded in death by his oldest daughter, Susan Krusing; 3 brothers; and 3 sisters.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 10, 2019 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Raymond will follow at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, with Rev. Dennis Meyette officiating. Military Honors will be conducted at the conclusion of the funeral services by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard. Burial will take place in Lakeview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials please be directed to Immanuel Lutheran Church. 

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