Orville Ray “Ray” Nevins, 65, of Mandan ND, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in the early morning on Wednesday February 2nd. Ray was diagnosed with lung cancer in May 2021 and battled it with strength and calm, enjoying as much time as possible with his family.

Ray was born November 1956 in southern California to parents Orville and Pearl Nevins, the youngest child with three older siblings; Virginia “Ginger”, Christine “Chris”, and Richard.

Growing up in southern California, he was an energetic and busy kid. He played baseball, but his passion was bowling. He practically lived at the bowling alley near his house, where he met his wife, Evie, who worked in the café.

As an adult, Ray was always a hard, dedicated worker. In California, he owned a distribution company for the Orange County Register. After moving to North Dakota, he had several jobs before working in Assisted Living where he then spent most of his career helping others.

He enjoyed spending time with family. He and the family could spend hours playing pinball together and no one ever grew tired of the fun. After the children grew up, raising and watching his grandson Spencer grow up was his greatest joy.

He is survived by his wife, Evie; sons, Jonathan (Cody Tabbert) and Scott; sister, Christine Nevins; and grandchildren, Spencer and Lochlan. He is preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Pearl Nevins; brother, Richard Nevins; and sister, Virginia Webber.

The family is holding a small private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Central Dakota Humane Society.