Raymond "Ray" Schlag

Raymond "Ray" D. Schlag, 77-year-old resident of rural Little Falls, MN, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2024 at the family farm near Swanville, MN.

Mass of Christian Burial held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at St. John's Catholic Church in Swanville, MN with Father Ron Dockendorf officiating. Burial at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery north of Little Falls. Visitation held one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. Caring for Ray and his family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, MN.

Raymond Dell Schlag, son of the late Dell Schlag and Emma (Kaiser) Schlag, was born on June 21, 1946, in Little Falls, MN. He was found deceased on February 17, 2024, at his childhood farm near Swanville, MN. Raymond attended primary and secondary school in Swanville, MN, graduating in 1964. He was drafted into the United States Army and later transferred to serve in the United States Marine Corps on January 12, 1966. He served a tour of duty in Vietnam as a combat engineer and was honorably discharged with the rank of Lance Corporal. Ray also served in the Army National Guard for several years. Upon discharge from the service, he made and sold firewood and raised hogs. He later worked at the boat works in Little Falls for many years.

Although Raymond struggled with addiction which had negative effects on his relationships, he refused to let that define him. Raymond enrolled in Brainerd Community College where he explored his interest in human psychology. Ray ultimately achieved sobriety for over 25 years, during which time he became increasingly active as a supportive member of the local recovery community. Through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other groups, Raymond facilitated recovery for many of its members, which in turn aided his own recovery. Ray spent countless hours driving members to meetings, sharing his insights, and listening without judgment.

Ray's many interests included reading, cooking, and trapping with cousin, Larry. He loved visiting with people and caring for animals, especially dogs. His hobby farm gave him purpose daily. Raymond's passion for motorcycles took him all over the country, where he could feel the breeze on his face as he cruised down the road and met new people along the way. Ray will always be remembered for his unique laugh and his sense of humor. He loved to tell stories, which always accompanied a twinkle in his eyes. His family and friends, who loved him, will miss him at the family gatherings where many memories and meals were shared. Ray's memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Ray is survived by his five children (who requested privacy); sister, Elaine (Myren) Anderson; nephews, Richard, Jeffrey, Jon, Bradley, Marc and niece Stephanie.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Dell and Emma Schlag.

"Some people spend their lifetime wondering if they made a difference...Marines don't have that problem." --Ronald Reagan