Raymond Walter Van Minsel

Raymond W. Van Minsel passed away, peacefully, on November 14, 2022 after a long, valiant battle with Aplastic Anemia. Ray was born November 3, 1943, in Hartford, WI to John and Martha (Hoag) Van Minsel and was the 7th of 8 children.

While attending Hartford High School, Ray would go to work for a dairy farmer at 5:00 AM, attend classes, then return to the dairy after school where he worked until 10:00 each night, cleaning stalls and milking and feeding the cows. Ray was active in basketball, wrestling, football, track, and cross country. His love of running continued into adulthood. When he was no longer able to run, Ray continued to walk 4 miles every day; logging miles was one of his greatest stress reliefs.

Following graduation in 1962, Ray enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, NV and developed his skills in plumbing. He was honorably discharged in 1966 and remained in Las Vegas working until he moved to his permanent home in Pocatello in 1971.

In 1986, Ray met the love of his life, Maggie Sullivan. The two were married in 1992 and enjoyed spending time at their cabin in Island Park with Katie and the dogs. They had several adventures together and shared their deep, unwavering faith.

Ray had many skills he used throughout his career. He worked for Modern Roofing, Idaho State University in the Housing Maintenance Department, and owned his own appliance repair business. He was always a very hard worker. Ray finished out his employment career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation where he retired, after 20 years in 2005.

In 2006, his title changed from husband, father, and friend to “Pops” when his granddaughter and best “little friend” Grace was born. She was one of the biggest blessings in his life and their relationship was one of pure joy, making many memories together.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha, brothers, John, James, Rick, Norbert, and Jerome.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret (Maggie) Van Minsel, daughter Katie Mickelson, granddaughter, Grace Mickelson, sisters Mary and Margaret, and many close friends who loved him dearly.

Ray’s family would like to thank Enhabit Home Health, Heritage Hospice, Dr. Warnock, and the hematology doctors, nurses, administrators, and staff at The Huntsman Cancer Institute. Their tireless care throughout his journey means more than words can ever express.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Huntsman Cancer Foundation in his honor. Give.huntsmancancer.org, 500 Huntsman Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 524 N. 7th Ave. Pocatello, ID with a viewing from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM immediately prior and a lunch reception immediately following.

Internment will be Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 2651 Cromwell Lane, Blackfoot, ID.

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