Raymond John Earley

Raymond John Earley

October 2, 1946 - March 28, 2022

Raymond (Ray) John Earley, age 75 of Watertown, Minnesota gave his breath back to the Creator on Monday, March 28, 2022. Ray was born in Mahnomen, Minnesota on October 2, 1946. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. Ray honorably served his Country in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was awarded four bronze stars and received the Good Conduct Medal, The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, The National Defense Service Medal and The Vietnam Campaign Medal. Ray loved being around his Marine Corp Veteran and care for the wounded Vets for whom he founded the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 360. He helped many Vets who were homeless and the ones suffering from PTSD.

Ray was proud of his heritage and as a White Earth Nation tribal member would often be seen at area powwows representing Veterans. Ray loved helping others and was the "go to" person for all things mechanical. His background from his military service and his love of working on his Harleys came in handy on many occasions. Ray was a gifted storyteller and his war stories we all wished would have been recorded. Above all, Ray loved his family and spending time with them was always his first priority. Now Ray will journey toward the land of everlasting happiness, where he will be welcomed by the ancestors and his beloved daughter. Gigawabamin! Miigwech for you service and love!

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Cheryl Earley; sons: Christopher Earley of Denver, Co. Zac Earley of Bemidji, MN, Joseph Earley of Tower, MN, John Earley of Watertown, MN, and Thomas Earley of Watertown, MN and five grandchildren.

Preceded in death by his parents and his daughter: Corrina Earley.

An all-night visitation will be held on Thursday, March 31, 2022 beginning at 7:00 P.M. at the G.A.P. School – Guadalupe Alternative Programs, 381 Robie St. East, Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Officiating will be Mitch Walking Elk

The Drum Group will be Midnight Express

Honorary Casket Bearers will be Pete Madson, Tom Storey, Jon Ludwig, Richard Stevens, Trudell Gureau, Steven LeQuier, Vietnam Veteran Chapter #320, St. Paul, Minnesota

Casket Bearers will be Zac Earley, Joseph Earley, Clyde Day, William Day, Antonio Solis Sr., Mark Solis Jr.

Interment will be held at Friday, April 1, 2022 at 9:30 A.M. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The Chilson Funeral Home in Winsted, Minnesota assisted the family with funeral arrangements.

On-line condolences can be directed to http://www.thechilsonfuneralhome.com

All - night visitation:

Thursday, March 31, 2022 - 7:00 P.M.

GAP School

fka / Guadalupe Alternative Programs

381 Robie Street East

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Interment:

Friday, April 1, 2022

Fort Snelling National Cemetery

Minneapolis, Minnesota