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   Raymond C. Peterson, lifelong resident of Badoura Township, passed away on Oct. 8, 2024 at the age of 69. Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 26 at 11 a.m. at the Cease Funeral Home in Park Rapids, MN. Visitation will be one hour prior.    

   Ray was born August 4, 1955, to Harry (Bud) and Virginia (Ginny) Peterson. A graduate of Akeley High School, he chose to stay on the farm and work the land, raising corn, oats and barley. Ray’s true passion was antique farming equipment, especially tractors. He was a member of the Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Small Engine Club, enjoying selling tickets and riding one of his beloved tractors in the local parades. Ray loved his neighbors and was very active in the community as a member of the Badoura Township Board, local fire warden, and was on the Akeley Fire Board for many years. Ray took Advanced Spotter Training for SkyWarn, reporting storm activity for The National Weather Service out of Grand Forks. Ray was known as the “unofficial” historian for the area. 

   Ray was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his sisters Deb and Carol Peterson of Cottage Grove, MN. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a VFW chapter or Local First Responders.

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