Surrounded by his family, Raymond Joseph Vandeveer, 70, went home to be with the Lord on May 11th, 2024. Born in Harvey, Illinois, Ray was the beloved son of the late Richard and Barbara Vandeveer. He married his lovely wife, Camille, and they spent the next 41 years together. After enjoying many years at their cabin on Forest Lake, they moved to the area and raised their four children.
Ray was active in his community by serving on the Forest Lake Planning Commission, the Mounds View Charter Commission, a member of the Appraisal Institute and a member of the Minneapolis Area of Realtors. He was also a dedicated Minnesota legislator, serving in both the State Senate and House of Representatives. As a Republican, Ray served in the House from 1998 to 2006, where he chaired the Taxes Subcommittee for the Property and Local Tax Division. He then served in the Senate from 2006 to 2012 and held various committee positions, including Chair of the Local Government and Elections Committee.
In addition to his service in public office, Ray was an entrepreneur. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from St. Cloud State University in 1975. He went on to own and operate his business as a real estate appraiser and broker for over 30 years.
Ray is survived by his wife, Camille Vandeveer; his children: Paul, Phillip (Sarah), Cara (Brad), and Alana; his grandchild, Emma; and his siblings: Rochelle Montague, Richard Vandeveer, Kathy O'Toole (Michael) and Robert Vandeveer (Suki). He was preceded in death by Richard and Barbara Vandeveer, (James Montague) and (Jan Vandeveer).
Ray's legacy of public service and community involvement will be fondly remembered. Above all, Ray loved the Lord and his family. His love and commitment to them were evident in all aspects of his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7
A Celebration of his Life will be held in Minnesota on Sunday June 23rd, 2024. Please contact a family member for more details.
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