Ned Ray

Ned James Ray was born July 28, 1941 in Falls City, Nebraska. He was one of two children of George and Jean (Gordon) Ray. He attended school in Verdon, Nebraska, and graduated from high school there in 1959. Ned attended the University of Nebraska for a while, and later returned to the university for more studies.

Ned worked for many years in the construction industry, traveling around the country to different projects. He worked as a construction supervisor and estimator for companies that included Luhr Brothers and Kanza Construction.

On May 6, 1994 Ned was united in marriage to Irene (Dicus) Rawson in Ruston, Louisiana. His two children, Becky and Patrick, and Irene’s two sons, Allen and Dirk, made the family complete.

Ned was a member of the Auburn Christian Church in Auburn, Nebraska. He was a big Husker fan, and cheered for both the Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed gardening, and was especially at growing tomatoes. His many interests and talents earned him titles such as “Grill Man” and “Math Whiz”, and he even had a pilot’s license at one time.

After surgery at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Ned passed away on Monday, August 24, 2015 at the age of 74 years and 27 days. His parents preceded him in death.

Ned is survived by his wife Irene of Auburn; daughter and son-in-law Becky Ray and Rusty of LA; son Patrick Ray of CT; step-sons Allen Rawson and Dirk Rawson of Omaha; granddaughters Marissa and husband Matt Strickler, Taylor, Bailey, and Rachael Rawson; sister and brother-in-law Sally and Dan Brown of Portland, OR; dog Jake; many other relatives and friends.

A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Corey Miller, was held Thursday, August 27, 2015 at the Auburn Christian Church. Nate Powell presented the eulogy, and Dale Thomas, accompanied by Janell Johnson, provided solos. Casket bearers were Dale Thomas, Lanny Williams, Chip Johnson, Doug Wasser, Robert Wasser, Jon White, and Danny Kouma. Burial was in the Verdon Cemetery near Verdon, Nebraska.