Raymond W. Karnuth

Ray was born on September 18th, 1935, in St. Paul Minnesota to Alma (nee Boesel) and Walter Karnuth. He was the youngest of four siblings. Ray is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Don (Anita), Ken (Peggy) and Betty Thorsen (George); wife, Georgeane; and son-in-law, Stanley Ruud. He is survived by his sons, Doug (Kathy), Kevin (Lois) and daughter Lisa Rae Ruud; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Also survived by Georgeane's sons, Craig (Kris) and Grant Ylitalo; and his special friend, Carolyn Minor; nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Ray lived a full and rewarding life. He grew up in St. Paul and attended St. Paul Johnson High School, where he played baseball and hockey. In 1953, he and his teammates became hockey state champions. He went on to play hockey for the University of Minnesota and remained involved in the sport for many years as a player, referee, and goal judge for the Gophers. Ray was an avid Minnesota sports fan throughout his life. He loved watching the Twins, Vikings, North Stars and later cheered on the Wild.

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and playing cards, especially cribbage, with family and friends. He also loved playing chess with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling, and sharing a meal with family and friends. Ray worked as a mason before taking on the role of building inspector for the State of Minnesota, where he retired after a long career.

He celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends. Reflecting on the day afterward, he was humbled and filled with gratitude for the love and support he had received throughout his life. Ray will always be remembered for his sense of humor, his ability to laugh at himself, his competitive spirit, and his generous heart. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever held in our hearts.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 115 North 4th Street, Stillwater, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am.