Raymond Robert Bishop

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Raymond Robert Bishop of Burnsville passed away on March 22, 2020 at the age of 96.

Ray was born to Ray and Mina Bishop in Somerset, Wis. on Feb. 2, 1924. He graduated from Somerset High School in 1941. After attending St. Olaf College and the University of Dubuque, Ray married Cleo Hellum in 1944. The couple had three sons: Bob, Barry and Jim.

Ray served in the United States Navy during WWII as a communications officer aboard the military ship USS Crosley. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Ray and Cleo raised their family in Richfield, Minn.

In addition to his career in sales for refrigeration companies, he was active in the Richfield community, serving on committees at Woodlake Lutheran Church, coaching Little League baseball, and belonging to multiple Richfield High School athletic organizations.

Ray and his second wife Darlene later moved to Burnsville with their son, Jon, and Darlene's son, Al. Ray and Darlene remained in the same home for 47 years and made many lifelong friends in their neighborhood. In retirement, Ray was an avid golfer and a loyal follower of professional sports, and also enjoyed many summers on Gull Lake with Darlene, Al, Jon, and their families.

Ray is survived by his loving wife Darlene, and sons Bob (Sandy) Bishop, Barry (Sharon) Bishop, Jim Bishop (Melissa Bauss), Jon (Jennifer Reedstrom) Bishop, and Al (Kyle) Hreha. Ray leaves behind grandchildren Jeff (Danielle) Bishop, Tim Bishop, Shelly (Ryan) Bormann, Carla (Luke) Froehle, Justin Hreha (Jessica Davidson), & Kaylin (Tyler) Faust. Ray adored his eight great-grandchildren, Elin and Nolan Bishop, Madelyn and Jack Bormann, Bishop and Nora Froehle, & River and Summer Faust. He cherished his close relationship with his first cousin's daughter, LeeAnn Leske, who lovingly referred to him as 'Uncle Ray.'

A memorial service will be held Aug. 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads Church, 17671 Glacier Way, Lakeville, Minn. A luncheon will follow the service. A private interment will take place Aug. 17 at Fort Snelling. Flowers and memorials welcome, with gratitude.

Published on August 9, 2020