Raymond "Ray" B. Farley

Raymond B (Ray) Farley born May 12, 1934, went peacefully into the heavens on the night of Saturday, April 12, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Ray is preceded in death by his mother Josie and father Bartley, two sisters Rose Ellen and Alice, his mother and father-in-law, other relatives and many great friends.

Ray is survived by his wife Estelle, who was his great love and in latter days, his entire world, and by his children, whom he fiercely loved: Terry Farley (Jeff Griffin); Mary Beth Liska (Dan); Mike (Beth); Pat (Terry) and Kevin. He treasured and was very proud of his grandchildren and their spouses/partners: David (Emily); Laura (Jacob); Ashley Rae (Adam); Sarah (Billy); Ben (Dani); Jackie (Jacob); Andi (Assaf); Mack (Annika); Ryne; Maggie; and his 8 great grandchildren. Ray is also survived by his sister Bea, many relatives and cherished friends.

Ray was born in Currie, MN, and grew up on a farm in Waubun, MN. He drove horses to school (thoroughly enjoying the horses but ironically not liking school.) Ray never lost his love of farming and nature, keeping big yards (which included holes for wiffle ball golf) which were the center of neighborhood games. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing, especially with his boys, and the card games and stories that accompanied the outings. Each spring he arranged his schedule around the weather, creating smoky-flavored maple syrup.

After serving in the US Army in Korea, receiving both a marksmanship medal and a good conduct medal, Ray returned to Waubun where he and Estelle met at the first of their many dances. They were married in 1959. After graduating from Moorhead State, Ray and Estelle moved to Alexandria, MN where he taught 8th grade math at Central Middle School (now Discovery) from 1960-1998. He also enjoyed coaching sports, running student council and working with students as the Math Counts advisor. Ray loved 8th graders, having the patience and wit to teach and coach them, even declining other positions to continue to work with his “other kids”. Ray also continued his own education, obtaining his Masters plus 60 credits from St. Cloud State in 1969. After retiring, he coached students at St. Mary’s School for Math Counts competitions. He remained close to many former students, was named the 1982-83 Teacher of the Year and voted the Grand Marshal for an Alexandria Homecoming parade.

Ray was very involved at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and School, living his strong faith. Following retirement, he was very active with the Golden K, American Legion and the Retired Teachers Organization. He also volunteered at various places, always wanting to help others. Ray was kind and patient with everyone, knowing that we each have our stories. He was happy in his plaid flannel shirts woodworking, refinishing tables that Estelle found at auctions, building his fish houses and helping his children and friends with everything from landscaping to home improvements. His golf trips with his boys and golf outings with his children and grandchildren were highlights, as was watching his grandsons and sons play at the Resorters Golf Tournament each August.

Ray adored Estelle every day of their 65+ year marriage and was never happier than when they were together: traveling in and out of the United States, dancing, playing cards, eating home-cooked meals (especially desserts), and being with family and friends. He particularly enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, traveling to see them in class plays, music events, dancing and sports. Ray was a great supporter (even if he slept through much of the artistic events). He also loved to have his children and grandchildren come to Lake Ida, playing games & cards, golfing, having bonfires and just being together. Ray continued his coaching with his grandchildren, creating math worksheets, providing golf and track tips and even backseat driving.

Ray will always be cherished with stories and laughter. He was the consummate gentleman and a great role model. May memories be our blessings.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Memory Care units at Grand Arbor and Edgewood for their kindness and excellent care of their father.

In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alexandria or to the donor’s preferred causes.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, 4:00 - 6:30 PM with a Prayer Service and a Time of Sharing at 6:30 PM. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 10:00 - 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery with Military Honors by the Alexandria Funeral Honor Guard and the Minnesota Army National Guard.