Obituary of Raymond Le Roy Vikander

Raymond Leroy Vikander, 88, was a beloved husband and father who passed away on January 29, 2023, at his home in Mesa, AZ, under the care of Hospice. Ray was born on August 22,1934 in Aberdeen, SD, to the late Walter and Martha Vikander. He grew up in Aberdeen and graduated from Aberdeen Central High School. He received a Bachelor's degree in Education from Northern State University in Aberdeen, his Masters in Administration from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. and a Specialist degree in Administration from Moorhead State University in Moorhead, MN. Raymond was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Aberdeen. Ray proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1953 to1957. He was a communications specialist in San Diego, Guam and Seattle. On December 27,1963, he was united in marriage to Betty Hite, his wife of 49 years. He was an educator and school administrator his entire teaching career in the both Minnesota and North Dakota. Ray was a proud member of the American Legion and attended Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo and Our Savior Lutheran Church in Mesa. He loved to play tennis and golf, enjoyed swimming, attended the Veterans Club meetings in Mesa and was a big Twins and Vikings fan. Ray was honored to be chosen as a participant for the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN. He flew to Washington D.C. with other Korean Veterans, and toured many of the National Monuments. Raymond is survived by daughter Michelle Vikander of Mesa, AZ, son Jon (Penny) of Oxbow, ND, and daughter MeLinda (Dave) Rawlings of Arnold, MD, and blessed with three grandchildren, Leah and Max Vikander, and Tyler Rawlings. He is also survived by brother Roger (Kay) Vikander, sister Kristi (Dennis) Sieler and many nieces and nephews and other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty, his son Scott, brothers Robert and Richard, sister Karen, and sisters-in-law Beverly and Marilyn. A family celebration of life service will be held in July. Any memorials in Ray's honor can be sent to the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN. P.O. Box 644, West Fargo, ND 58078.