In loving memory of

Raymond R. Phelps
April 6, 1957 - November 12, 2016

Raymond R. Phelps, age 59, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 12, 2016, while working out at his country home in Genoa, Minnesota. The memorial service will be at 3:00 pm on Friday, November 18, 2016, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester. The visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorials are preferred to Lyle Area Cancer or to a charity of the donors choice.



Raymond Ralph Phelps was born on April 6, 1957, in Rochester, to Ward and Dorothy (Stanchfield) Phelps. He graduated from Mayo High School in 1975. On August 2, 1980, he married his soul mate, Tara Cooling. Together they raised their children at their happy place in rural Byron. Ray was a hard-working man with many incredible talents. He worked as a machinist in the Division of Engineering at Mayo Clinic for 37 years. Ray was always tinkering away at projects and making things work better. He was known as Mr. Fix-It to his family. Ray was an avid sportsman and loved the outdoors. He felt at home on land or water as long as he had his family and a golden yummy. Over the years, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, scuba diving, camping, snowmobiling, riding Harley, bowling, a good game of cribbage and cheering on the MN Vikings and Twins.



Ray leaves behind his beloved wife, Tara; daughters, Trisha (Brian) Shanahan and Laura Phelps; sons, Jonathan Bud Phelps; grandsons, Brandon and Zachary Shanahan; brother, Ward (Eleanor) Phelps; mother-in-law, Patricia (Dale) Peters; many in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, dear friends and his loyal hound, Tex.



Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Ward and Dorothy; infant brother; father-in-law, Roger Cooling; sister-in-law, Tracy Schilling; his maternal and paternal grandparents.



Arrangements are with Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. Special memories may be left for the family at www.ranfranzandvinefh.com




Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester MN 55901

Tributes

John Gebhart, MD wrote on Nov 27, 2016:

"My thoughts and prayers to all Ray's family. As a surgeon at Mayo I one day crossed paths with Ray as I needed help modifying a surgical instrument. What a kind, thoughtful and talented man. He was amazing at his craft and amazing as a person. May this difficult time pass........please find comfort in celebrating his well lived life."

Jeanne Baker wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

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Jeanne Baker wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

"Ray was such a dear heart, he will forever be missed. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you."

Gail Sim wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

"Dear Tara, I don't know if you will remember me from Gugg. 8 at the Clinic, but I wanted to let you know how very sorry I was to read in the paper that you had lost your husband. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. With sympathy and hugs, Gail Sim"

Mark, Laura, and Zachary Weerheim wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

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Chris and Michael Rose wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

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Chris and Michael Rose wrote on Nov 18, 2016:

"Tara and family~ we run across few people in life, than leave a lasting impression on us. Raymond was indeed one of these individuals. I will surely miss his warm smile, laugh, and unique voice inflection. Raymond epitomizes the definition of a 'good' man. Truly, life at times, seems bitterly painful and inexplicable, and the death of loved one seems to bring out the best in people. Losing a loved one also makes us stop, reflect, and think about what really is important in life. Chris and I know full well the pain that accompanies the death of a love one. Know how deeply touched and saddened we are with Raymond's passing. Also know, that one day, you will reunite forever with the dear man, in the father's eternal life. I have learned to cease asking the question, WHY, there simply will be no answer provided. Find comfort my dear friend, in knowing we all are here for a certain amount of time, no more, or no less. In time, you will find a way to thank the father for the time we are given with our loved ones. I too, know and have experienced this. Until then, find peace in your life sweetheart, and lean on the love provided by those around you, vR Chris and Michael Rose."

Larry Schriever wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

"It's been many years. But hearing the news took my breath away. I am so sorry for your loss"

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

" A SPATHIPHYLLUM was ordered on November 17, 2016 "

Mary Tucker wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

"Tara and family, so sorry to hear about Ray's passing. Sending thoughts and prayers."

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

" A GARDEN PATH was ordered on November 17, 2016 "

Mike and Rose Decklever wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

"Tara and family our thoughts and prayers are with you and we are so sorry for your loss of Ray."

Jeff Johnson and Shelly Valardi wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

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Wes Mills wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

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Candy Hostrawser wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

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Jim and Becky Lowrie wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

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Jim and Becky Lowrie wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

"Tara and family we are so sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He will be missed"

Linda Richardson wrote on Nov 17, 2016:

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Michelle guttormson wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"My heart aches for you. What a very tough year. May you all enjoy the memories and hold them close. Love, hugs, and prayers to all."

Dick Purdue wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"We are very sorry for your loss. God only knows the "why", when these things happen. May all be blessed by Him in the coming days and years."

First Lutheran Church, Glenville, MN wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"We at First Lutheran in Glenville extend our heartfelt sympathy in this tragic loss of a wonderful man."

Patrick Jensen wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"I'm just shocked by the news of Ray's passing. I knew Ray from the Byron Snow Bears snowmobile club. We would go on wonderful trail rides together. I also associated with Ray at Mayo and I worked on his home computer. I'm just so blessed to have known Ray. Ray was gifted with so many talents, all which will be truly missed I'm sure. Ray was so kindhearted and always to willing to help you out while expecting nothing in return. My heart is so heavy. Blessings to Ray's wife and to the entire Phelps family. The heavens are getting a gem!"

Patrick Jensen wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Cori Swain (COMPASS) wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Samuel A Yundzel wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Nicky Strain-Fillion wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Patty Kammer wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"So sorry to hear about Ray. Hugs to you and your family. He all was had a smile on his face. Prayers sent your way. Patty"

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

" A DIGNITY IN WHITE was ordered on November 16, 2016 "

Dawn Hoksch wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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richard laqua becky clausen wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"R.I.P YOU WERE A GREAT GUY REMEMBERING YOU FROM THE OLD DAYS."

RICHARD LAQUA&BECKY CLAUSEN wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Darla Overton wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

"Phelps family; I worked with Ray on a couple projects for Surgery. I'm very saddened to hear of Ray's passing. I hold you close to my heart and pray for strength in these difficult days. Ray was amazing at what he did and always went out of his way to help us; trying to find solutions; very hard working man. Ray will be missed dearly. Big hugs and embraces to each of you."

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

" A DISH GARDEN WITH FRESH FLOWERS was sent by Cathy, Carol, Caren and Families on November 16, 2016 "

Julie Pederson wrote on Nov 16, 2016:

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Liz and Ron Sanders wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Vickie Mewhorter and family wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Tommy and Ann Tucker wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Cathy Nierman wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Steve and DAwn Ferschweiler wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Karl and JoniMaxfield wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Our hearts are broken...Ray was a true friend and buddy!"

Rick and Vicki Hampel wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Tara, so so sorry for your lose. Our heart goes out to you and your family. May you find comfort in all your happiest of memories. Ray was a wonderful man......he will be dearly missed! (((HUGS))) & prayers!"

Toby Tomshine & Michele Back wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Renae Forsman wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Ward and Sarah Phelps wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

" An EXPRESSION OF LOVEEASEL was sent on November 15, 2016 All of our Love and Sympathy during this difficult time. Ray was taken from his family so quickly. My little brother is with Mom and Dad now watching over all of us. I will remember all our great times and the love we shared, those memories will never fade. Ward, Eleonore and family "

Larry & Lori Nierman wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Becky Mangan wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Tara and Family~I am so deeply sad to hear about Ray's accident. There are no words that anyone can say at this time to take the heartache and pain away. Just know that there are people around you that care and love you and are here to help an any way that we can. My deepest sympathy to all of you and remember to keep the great times you have had with Ray and hold them close to your heart. He has gained his wings and is now your guardian angel. Rest in peace, Ray."

Becky Mangan wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Deb & Don McCall wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Deb & Don McCall wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Our hearts go out to you all at this sad time. We loved Ray for so many reasons, his smile, his attitude, his love of life and family and so much more. It is still surreal for us to think of him gone. We will miss him dearly as will you. Love, prayers and peace to you all as you reflect in his memory and love of you."

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

" A TRADITIONAL FUNERAL BASKET was ordered on November 15, 2016 "

Larry & Lori Nierman wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Tara, Laura, Jon and Trisha thinking of you at this time of loss remember when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure forever and may those treasures give you peace and comfort. Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this very difficult time."

Jim & Connie Hoeft wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Jill and Tony Tabaka wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Jon and family, we are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time."

Cindy Sholes wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Paul and Rhoda Lund wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Bruce and Pam Gustine wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Bill and Libby Hammond wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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Expression of Sympathy wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

" A SPATHIPHYLLUM was sent on November 15, 2016 Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. Our warmest condolences, Bruce & Darla, Jeremy & Kelly, Hope, Bailee, Jaxson, Erin, Ben, Zane, Granger "

Tom K Phelps wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

"Hello:I am so sorry to hear of Ray's passing. We are cousins! My father, Tom Phelps, age 92, (Soda Springs,ID) is a younger brother to Ray's father Ward. Blessings, prayers and warm wishes from our family here in Boise!"

Sara Gustine Bass wrote on Nov 15, 2016:

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John and Judy Wittenberger wrote on Nov 14, 2016:

"Tara---There are no words....thinking of you in this very sad time....keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. We are so very sorry about Ray."

Dave Quandt wrote on Nov 14, 2016:

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Jodi Schleusner-Vreeman wrote on Nov 14, 2016:

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Mike and Dawn Nelson wrote on Nov 14, 2016:

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Paul and Jessica Nierman wrote on Nov 14, 2016:

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