He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and two brothers.
Ray was born August 10, 1932, on the family farm in Arlington, Nebraska to Howard and Adeline (Rabe) Ruwe. Ray attended a one-room grade school at nearby Telbasta. He attended high school in Arlington and then transferred to Fremont, where he graduated in the Class of 1950. Ray married his sweetheart, Loretta A. Wickert, on June 28, 1953. He served in the Korean War, rising to the rank of Sergeant in the Army before his discharge. He carried the military values of duty, honor, and service with him throughout his life.
After the war, Ray and Loretta moved to the farm in Arlington, where for over 20 years he found great satisfaction in farming and feeding cattle. Ray and Loretta were blessed with five children: Daniel, Karen (Elwood), Timothy, Matthew and Jonathan Ruwe. While on the farm, they were also foster parents to Jamie Winter. In 1976, after a brief stay in Atkinson, Nebraska, Ray and his family settled in Fremont. The family fondly remembers trips to visit relatives and August vacations at Okoboji Bible Conference. Their home was a place of welcome for family, neighbors, friends and missionaries from around the world.
Outside of work, Ray was a Gideon and a member of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Fremont where he served as a Sunday School teacher and elder. Ray was also on the board of the Low-Income Ministry, a member of Fremont's Golden-K Kiwanis Club and delivered Meals-on-Wheels. In retirement, Ray enjoyed traveling, gardening and working with his hands in his wood shop. He took pride in creating things that would be enjoyed by his family and others. His patience, skill, and attention to detail were evident in everything he did.
Ray's greatest joy came from watching his family grow. He was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with them, share a smile, and create lasting memories. They will remember the twinkle in his eye, his heartfelt prayers and love for God's Word.
Raymond's life reminds us of the words found in 2nd Timothy 4:7: ''I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.'' His example will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Fremont Alliance Church 1615 N. Lincoln St. Fremont, Nebraska, with Rev. Jeremy Stine officiating. A luncheon will be served in the church fellowship hall following the service. A private family interment will take place at the Omaha National Cemetery. There will be no visitation.
Memorials may be designated to Samaritan's Purse or Fremont Alliance Church Missions.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
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