Raymond E. Deuster

Married almost 61 years (July 29, 2022 would have been 61 years) to his loving wife, Nadine. Retired from St. Edward's Hospital (now Mercy) after 52 1/2 years of service in the Food Service. Raymond was well known for the delicious food he cooked as well as his "Food Art" (vegetable flower bouquets, melon baskets, and ice sculptures). In addition to his talents he was always recognized for his lack of absenteeism, having less than 5 "sick" days during his 50 plus years at St. Edward's.

He was baptized at the current St. Boniface Church on the day of its dedication, May 7th, 1939.

He attended St. Boniface School and St. Anne's High School. He has been a long time member of Immaculate Conception Church.

Raymond loved his family, his miniature horses, telling jokes, making food displays, taking care of the yard and decorating it for Christmas. He lived life to its fullest. He was well-liked by many and loved by those who knew him best.

One of his "claims to fame" is preparing a fundraising breakfast for, at the time, Governor Bill Clinton, who later went on to become President. He was always willing to care for people and give selflessly of himself. He even missed meeting President Gerald Ford at the dedication of St. Edward's hospital because he was assisting a police officer in the parking lot where a lady had fainted.

He coached softball and even started the girl’s softball program at Immaculate Conception. He enjoyed being involved and watching his children's and grandchildren's activities--ball games, 4-H programs, raising rabbits, school and church activities.

Raymond is survived by his wife Nadine, of home; son, Eugene Deuster (Christy) of Fort Smith; daughter, Janice Locknar (Mike) of Fort Smith; grandchildren,: David Deuster (Whitney) of Bentonville, Sara Deuster of Fort Smith, Eric Locknar (Taylor) of Fort Smith, Brandon Locknar (Amanda) of Conway and Garrett Locknar, of Fort Smith; great grandchildren, Jonathan & Benjamin Deuster, Callen and Kimbree Locknar; brothers: Paul Deuster of Tulsa, OK, Jimmy Deuster of Dallas, TX and Robert Deuster of Atlanta, GA Sisters, Lucy Catina of Dallas, TX, Margaret Deuster of Fort Smith, AR and Dorothy Boyd of Fort Smith, AR, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Steve and Mary Deuster and brother, Louis Deuster.

Family will greet friends from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at Edwards Funeral Home, Funeral Mass will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, with interment to follow at Oak Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Boniface Catholic Church or to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.