Raymond Daninger

Raymond J. Daninger, age 81 of Forest Lake, died peacefully while surrounded by his family on Monday, January 16, 2017. Ray was born September 23, 1935 in Forest Lake, Minnesota the son of Rudolph and Ann (Kimmes) Daninger. He graduated from Forest Lake High School, Class of 1953 and went on the further his education at Saint Cloud State. His original intentions were to become an educator, but life's plans changed and he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country. During his enlistment, he began receiving letters from back home. Those letters, from Geri Sandstrom, began a courtship that spanned a lifetime. Upon his return from the service, Ray and Geri were united in marriage on May 2, 1959 at The Church of Saint Peter. Their love for one another began with those letters (which they still have) and was visible to everyone who knew them. They truly were each other's best friends; always together. Ray made his career in sales management for Westinghouse Electric for 35 years. Ray and Geri made their home in Forest Lake, where he was extremely active in his community. In his retirement he took a solid interest in local politics and began his political career with the Planning Commission in the Township of Forest Lake. He later became the Mayor for the City of Forest Lake for ten years. He later took a seat on the Economic Development Authority of Forest Lake, where he served until his death. In their retirement, Ray and Geri become "inn keeper sitters" for several Minnesota Bed and Breakfasts. Together they enjoyed snowmobiling, traveling, bike riding and entertaining. Some of Ray's greatest memories were when he was fishing, hunting, making a campfire and grilling on the BBQ. Above all, Ray was simply a great man. He was a devoted and loving husband for 57 years; a world class father and grandfather, who looked forward to following and supporting them through their many sporting activities and a generous member of our community. Four years ago, he was diagnosed with cancer. While that diagnosis would have crushed most, being the determined spirit Ray was, he gave cancer everything he had. He fought not one, but two different types of cancer with the same spirit and tenacity he gave everything in life! In his words, "He got busy living, instead of busy dying." On Monday morning, with his family gathered around him in the comfort of the home he loved so dearly, he went to meet His Lord and Savior and left the troubles of cancer behind. Even though he is gone, those memories will never fade. The love he had for his family, while they gathered for Christmas dinners and held hands in prayer will never be forgotten. The emotions he willingly expressed in a moment of compassion during a meal, conversation or accomplishment will forever be imprinted in the lives of those he touched. He is survived by his beloved wife, Geri; children, Scott (special friend, Kari), Denise (John) Becker, Dean (Kim); seven grandchildren, Kelcee (Jeff) Kociemba, Cole Daninger, Nicole Becker, Katy Becker, Luke Becker, Jake Daninger, Joli Daninger; one great-grandson, Jase Kociemba; sister, Diane (Gary) Zak; other family and friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 21, 2017 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends from 4:00-8:00 p.m., Friday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Private interment at Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake. Memorials are preferred.

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Funeral Home: Mattson Funeral Home 343 North Shore Drive Forest Lake, MN US 55025

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Previous Events

cemetery
Monday, January 16, 2017
Visitation
Friday, January 20, 2017
Service
Saturday, January 21, 2017

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