Raymond Vesel

Raymond William Vesel

September 3, 1934 – June 28, 2025

Ray Vesel, 90, of Ely MN, passed away peacefully on Saturday June 28th at Carefree Living.

Ray was born in Hibbing Minnesota to John and Agnes (Kuze) Vesel. He was very proud of his Slovenian heritage and enjoyed sharing fond childhood memories of his hard-working parents, hunting and fishing, working on a local farm, playing sports, having fun with many neighborhood friends, and being his MaMa’s “right hand man.”

In 1954, Ray was enlisted into the military and served in the Air Force in Germany. After his honorable discharge in 1958, he continued to serve in the Air National Guard until retiring in 1988. While overseas he had some great coaching to hone his skills as a Fastpitch Softball pitcher. Folks all over the range recalled Ray’s wickedly expert skills on the mound. He pitched well into his 50’s.

Upon returning home to Hibbing, jobs were scarce, so he ended up working at the City Rec Center, where he met his eventual bride, Mary Ann. Once married, they moved to Ely to start their life together, as Ray was hired by Reserve Mining Co. in Babbitt. Ray and Mary Ann shared 63 blissful years of marriage. They thoroughly enjoyed raising their family in their home on Ely’s east side.

Ray retired from LTV Steel in 1999 and jumped right into many home improvement jobs. He fully savored having time to spend with Mary Ann to go fishing, shopping, visiting, or just to go out for a pleasant drive to view many of Ely’s beautiful lakes and landscapes.

In May of 2024, Ray and Mary Ann moved from their beloved home to Carefree Living, because of declining health. Here they both received excellent care in a loving environment. Mary Ann left this world with Ray by her side on December 15, 2024. He bravely forged on without her, battling multiple old-age ailments that made it hard to enjoy himself. Hospice care helped him return to heaven comfortably and peacefully.

Ray is survived by son John (Nina) Vesel, daughter Sandy (Arlyn) Aronson. Grandchildren Daniel, Sarah, and Jason Vesel. Sister-In-Law Roberta Jean (Lyle) Adams, and their children Kristen (Brian) Brandt, Jenn (Greg) D’Alessandro. Special Niece and Goddaughter, Julie Vesel.

He is predeceased by his parents; sister Jennie (Albert) Levstek, brother William (Marion) Vesel and their son, Tom. Parents-In-Law Robert and Helen Basarich, and sister in law Dessa Louise.

Cremation has taken place. Catholic Funeral Mass and Committal will be held On Friday August 1st, at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony’s. Kerntz Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

The Vesel family would like to express solemn thanks to many in the community who touched Ray’s life, and ours. To many neighbors who helped in different ways, big and small, especially Kathy Matschiner. To Dr. Schwinghamer and his team, for many years of excellent care. To the caregivers at CareFree Living, and to the Essentia Hospice team. Each of you made such a big difference during a difficult time. And we are in awe of, and will forever remember Ann Spangler, who came into Ray’s life when he was at Mary Ann’s side at her end. Besides being a wonderful friend, she helped guide him back to his Catholic faith, a gift she was uniquely qualified to give. We are so grateful.

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