Raymond R. Thorbjornsen

GLADSTONE — Raymond R. Thorbjornsen, 94, of 5720 Pine 0.25 St., Gladstone, passed away Friday, March 1, 2019, at Cedar Hill Assisted Living in Bark River, surrounded by family. He was born on Dec. 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, Calif., and she preceded him in death on April 27, 1990. Together, the couple shared 45 years of marriage and raised three 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 five 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.