Raymond Paul Cole was born June 12, 1931 in Bottineau, North Dakota, to Jake and Amanda (Due) Cole. He passed away April 15, 2017 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota. Ray spent his younger years in the Willow City area, attended the Willow Public School and the Notre Dame Academy. Ray married Marlyce Hagen in 1958. Ray served in the US Navy during the Korean War on the destroyer USS Marshall. After returning from the service, he attended the North Dakota State School of Science and operated RC Welding and Machine Shop for almost 40 years in Valley City. He relished a challenge and came to be known as a man who could fix absolutely anything. He was also regarded as someone who would give the shirt off his back to help others. He loved snowmobiling, boating, jet skiing, hunting and fishing but most of all he loved to do things with his family. Any activities that interested his children, had him "all in" whether it be the Boy Scouts, snowmobile racing or demolition derbies. His grandchildren brought him a new level of joy and enthusiasm. He will be remembered for his quiet demeanor and gentle soul. He was a member of the DAV and VFW.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Marly, three sons, Terry (Steve Brinduse), Minneapolis: Shawn (Teresa), Valley City; Scott (Karen Anderson and daughter Erika), Valley City, a brother, Ken, Williston, three grandchildren, (Meghan, Adam and Amanda), two great grandchildren (Owen and Emrie Wahl) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Raymond is preceded in death, by his parents, a sister Ilene and a brother, Lyle.