Writer Ray

Writer Ray, born Raymond Tyler Lofvendahl in Clarksfork, Idaho on July 14, 1933, passed away peacefully in McCook, Nebraska on January 11, 2013 with family by his side. Before joining the army, Ray was adopted by his stepfather and his last name became Lubben.

Ray graduated from Carlton High School in Carlton, NE with the class of 1951.  Following high school he enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1954 to 1956. During this time, he served his country in the Korean War and also received a National Defense Service Medal and an Army of Occupation Medal. He then went on to complete his Bachelor's Degree in Geography from Peru State College. Ray was employed by the State of Nebraska for 12 ½ years as a peace officer. He also worked for the University of Idaho beginning in 1975 and continuing until retirement in 1994.

Ray's early interests were rock hunting, writing, snake collecting, hunting, fishing and photography. Later in life, he rediscovered his love for writing in the form of cowboy poetry and short stories. He performed his works in several venues and was published in various magazines and newspapers. During this period in his life, Ray legally changed his name to Writer Ray.

Writer Ray was married to Catherine L. (Bailey) Lubben for 44 years. Though they divorced in 2005, they continued a supportive relationship and were dedicated to the well being of each other until the day he left us.

Writer Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Twyla Lubben.

He is survived by his two daughters, Sharon Holmes of Palisade, NE and Kathleen (Charles) Brotherton of Austin, TX; as well as his six grandchildren, Katrina Giles, Rose Mason, Emma Pearl Botherton, Jennifer Holmes, Peter Holmes and Matthew Holmes.

Writer Ray had a special ability to make friends. He was endowed with a sensitive heart, a curious mind and playful sense of humor. He will be missed by many