Raymond McLaughlin

Raymond (Ray) Dean McLaughlin was born on July 10th 1957 in Pierre, SD to Raymond “Mac” and Teresa (Nemec) McLaughlin. He passed away on February 10th, 2022 surrounded by loved ones.

He was raised in, and loved living and working on the family ranch in Midland, SD. The family moved to Farmington, MN in 1972 where he later graduated from High School. He received a Hardware and Homecenter and a Marketing and Management degree from Rosemount Technical College.

Ray was blessed with three children whom he always remained close with. He moved his family to Lake Preston, SD in 1995 to fulfill dreams of owning a Bait Shop. He resided there until his passing. Ray was part of the Volunteer Fire Department, Lake Preston Chamber, and the Prairie Lakes Pheasants organizations. For years he worked with the Chamber to promote the Annual Lake Thompson Fishing Tournament. In March 2021 he retired from working as the Boiler Technician at South Dakota Soybean Processors in Volga, SD after 19 years.

He often brought his golden retrievers camping and would visit relatives along the way. Ray enjoyed his annual trips to Las Vegas to watch NASCAR and whatever other adventures came his way. He kept farming throughout his life working in the fields around Lake Preston. His grandchildren enjoyed their turns to ride with “Tractor Grandpa.” Being a grandfather was something that meant the world to him, and he always took the time to brag about their latest accomplishments. Ray spent his days with his golden retriever and best friend Ringo watching NASCAR, cruising gravel roads, and occasional pheasant hunting. He always said he was living in God’s country and appreciated the beauty around him. He truly cherished the visits he had from family and friends.

He is survived by his children and grandchildren Justin (Shannon) Riley and Ajax, Daniel (Jessica) Leo and Eden, Amber (Jason) Kassidy, Emerson, Terrence, and Jasper and Mother of his children, Carole McLaughlin. His siblings Valerie, Penny, LeRoy, Kevin, Debbie, Michelle and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother Larry McLaughlin; his parents Raymond “Mac” and Teresa (Nemec) McLaughlin; maternal grandparents Ernest and Bessie Nemec; and paternal grandparents Emerson and Emily McLaughlin.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, February 18, 2022 at the Lake Preston Lutheran Church in Lake Preston, SD with Fr. Richard Baumberger officiating.  Visitation will be from 5-7 pm on Thursday in the church.  The Johnson-Henry Funeral Chapel in Lake Preston is helping the family with arrangements.