Raymond Garland
Dr. Raymond Orval Garland, 89, of Lakeville, formerly of Staples, peacefully passed away on March 29, 2024.
A celebration of Ray’s life will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024, with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at Staples Alliance Church, 1512 8th Street NE, Staples. A lunch will be served following the service.
Ray was born June 1, 1934, to Orval and Ethel (Miller) Garland in Bertha. He was a beloved figure in both his personal and professional life, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion and service.
Ray graduated from Staples High School in 1952 and furthered his education at Wheaton College in Illinois. He was accepted into the University of Minnesota Dental School, where he graduated in 1959.
Ray married his high school sweetheart, Helen Amundson in 1956, embarking on a journey of love and partnership that spanned over five decades.
Following his dental education, Ray served his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force for two years, stationed in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Upon completing his military service, Ray and Helen returned to their hometown of Staples, where they raised their four daughters and established his dental practice, known for its care and dedication to the community.
Throughout his seven decades as a resident of Staples, Ray dedicated himself to serving others. He was deeply involved in various community organizations, including Staples Alliance Church, Rotary, Boy Scouts and served on the school board, exemplifying his commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him.
Even in retirement, Ray continued to demonstrate his values of compassion and selflessness. He lovingly cared for his wife, Helen, throughout her courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease, providing unwavering support and comfort during difficult times.
Ray is survived by three daughters, Loree (Robert) Larson, Lisa (Greg) Lawrence and Linda (Noel) Samlaska; eight grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Larry (Joyce) Garland and Bill Garland; one son-in-law, Mike Pride; two sisters-in-law, Kathy (Kendall) Garland and Doris (Liden) Amundson and numerous nieces, nephews and cherished friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Helen; daughter, LuAnn Pride; son-in-law, Kevin Dosmann; sister and brother-in-law Janet and Cloyce Grondahl; one brother, Herb Garland; sister-in-law, Sharon (Ford) Garland; sister- and brother-in-law Lavina and Garland Davis and brother-in-law, Donald Amundson.
In accordance with Ray’s wishes, his body was donated to the University of Minnesota for the advancement of science.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Diabetes Association in honor of Ray’s memory.
Dr. Raymond Orval Garland will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy of love and service will continue to inspire generations to come.
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