Obituary of Mark Douglas Ray

Mark Douglas Ray, 66, peacefully passed away on Thursday June 2, 2022, at a care center.

Mark was born on December 13, 1955, to Melvin Jr and Janis (Svee) Ray. He grew up in West Concord and graduated from West Concord High School in 1974.

While attending high school Mark met Marlene Vangness. They started dating and later married on March 24, 1979. The couple had 2 children Benjamin Jacob and Shannon Marlena. The family lived in rural Dodge County. Mark and Marlene later divorced.

Mark worked at IBM for most of his career. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and carpentry. He remodeled the family’s home several times. The most recent project was converting an old barn into a home in rural Claremont.

Mark is survived by his children, Benjamin Ray (Robin Keller) and Shannon (Paul) Zielsdorf, all from Zumbrota. Mother; Janis Ray. Sister; Arlene (Arnie) Cash. Brothers; Richard (Catherine) of Carrollton, TX and Steven (Gloria) Ray of Chanhassen. Grandchildren; Aspen Ray, Hailey Ray (Nathan Braun) and Luke Ray. Kayla (Derek Benda) Hendrickson and Arieanna Hendrickson. Hannah, Coy and Tanner Zielsdorf. Great Grandchildren; Khloe and Kinzlie Benda and August Bilski. Also, many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his father; Melvin Jr and nephew; Derek Ray. Also, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

A private gathering will be held later with immediate family members.