Raymond Appel

Raymond Henry Appel, aged 74, passed away peacefully on May 30 at his favorite place, his home, surrounded by family and his grandson's beloved cat. He is survived by Judy, his wife of 52 years, sons Robert (Marcia) and Thomas (Elizabeth), and daughters Michelle (Kelly) and Nancy (Mitch), and grandchildren Lauren, Josiah, Grace and Levi. Ray grew up in Austin, MN, graduated from Austin High School in 1957 and was preceded in death by his mother and father, Pearl (nee Ranum) and Henry, and his sister Dolores. He is survived by siblings Phyllis, Helen, Rodney, Sharon and JoAnn. Ray was a competitive amateur golfer, card player, lover of home and garden, mechanic, scientist, and a true gentleman. He had a dual career as an instructor at Lakewood Community College and as a golf coach. Ray was a devoted teacher who always had time to nurture a student. Intrigued with the natural world, he loved the earth and was amazed by the symmetry of the universe and the power of God's hand. Ray was a model father and grandfather and a friend to many. His memorial service will be on Friday, June 7, at 11 AM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1616 W. Olive Street, in Stillwater. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Memorials are preferred to Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Lakeview Hospice or the National Parkinson Foundation. A special thank you to the Lakeview Home Care and Hospice team for their wise and compassionate treatment, making it possible for Ray to be cared for at home.