Raymond Bert Smith

Raymond B. Smith, age 82, of Willmar, passed away Wednesday morning, November 8, at CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar.

A celebration of Ray's life will be from 5-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 30, at Peterson Brothers Funeral Home in Willmar.  A private interment will be held in Hardanger Cemetery near Svea.    Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home.  www.petersonbrothers.com

Raymond Bert Smith was born on September 25, 1941, in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of Bert and Hazel (Hystad) Smith.  He grew up in Willmar, was baptized in the Lutheran faith at First Lutheran Church in Renville and graduated from Willmar High School in 1959.  Following high school, he stayed at home and worked on the family farm.  In 1983, Raymond was married to Judy D. Holt.  They made their home in Willmar and Raymond kept busy on the farm.  He had a deep faith in the Lord and was proud to be a strong conservative.  Raymond enjoyed mechanical things and attending pioneer ag auctions.  He also loved guns and attending gun shows.

He is survived by several nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Judy in 2020; and three sisters, Doris Wallert, Janice Smith and Nancy Dunn.