Raymon (Ray) Lester Matsen, age 67, of Minneapolis, MN, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 14, 2025. Born on November 5, 1957, to Ordian and Beverly (Frost) Matsen in Hibbing, Minnesota, Ray was the oldest of three boys. He grew up on the  Iron Range and graduated from Hibbing High School in 1976. He later attended Oak Hills Bible College in Bemidji, MN, where he met the love of his life, Scarlet Rapp. The two were married on July 8, 1978, in Chisholm, MN.

In their early years together, Ray and Scarlet enjoyed traveling, dining out, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. They both longed to be parents, and after years of waiting, were blessed with four wonderful children. As a family, they lived in Chicago and Mexico before settling in Chisholm, where Ray worked as a furniture salesman and later with NHS, working with individuals with disabilities.

Throughout his life, Ray loved the Lord and found great joy in studying Scripture. He was always eager to learn, grow in his faith, and engage in conversations with people of all ages. Ray also had a deep love for music, whether singing, strumming his guitar, or crafting beautiful instruments in his woodshop. He also poured his heart into cooking and delighted in preparing meals for Scarlet and the kids.

One of Ray's favorite traditions was traveling to the Boundary Waters with his sons, and later with his grandsons. He loved fishing and was always the biggest fan for whoever was in the boat with him. He also cherished his Daddy/Daughter dates with his girls and truly treasured every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. Ray deeply loved his dog, Porsche, as well as his grand-dogs, Peaches and Winnie.

Ray is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 47 years, Scarlet, and their children: Zachary Matsen, Charity (Jason) Helstrom, Hännah Matsen, and Jesse (Amber) Matsen. He is survived by his 11 grandchildren, who will dearly miss their Papa Ray: Kaleb, Aaliyah, Olivia, Kalven, Alyssa, Kolten, Kohen, Kash, Reńe, Sydnee, and Beverly. He is also survived by his brothers Gregg (Nancy) Matsen and Scott (Renee) Matsen, and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ordian and Beverly Matsen, and his granddaughter, Audrey Matsen.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Chisholm Baptist Church in Chisholm, MN. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 AM.

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