Raymond Callstrom

The memorial service for Raymond "Ray" Callstrom, Jr. of Albert Lea will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 2 at St. Theodore's Catholic Church, Albert Lea. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church, beginning at 10 a.m. Father James Berning and Deacon Mike Ellis will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by the Albert Lea Area Veterans Groups. Interment will be at a later date at St Theodore Catholic Cemetery. Raymond died Monday, March 28, 2011, at St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester. He was surrounded by family throughout a long and brave battle with several health conditions. He was 79 years old. Ray was born November 18, 1931, in Red Wing to Raymond Sr. and Hannah. After graduation from Cannon Falls High School, Ray served in the Korean War. Upon his honorable discharge, Ray graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1959 with a doctorate in veterinary medicine. For over three decades, Ray worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a Regional Director of meat and poultry inspection. An avid rose gardener for years, Ray raised a wide variety of roses and other flora. He enjoyed many fishing trips with friends and family who relied upon his culinary skill to create amazing fish dinners. In addition, Ray was a voracious reader, was a long-suffering Vikings and Gophers fan, and loved political debate. Ray loved being with his family and many grandchildren. He will be dearly missed. Ray is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lucille and their four children: Teresa (Joel) Matheson Albert Lea; Matthew (Brenda) of Rochester; Peter (Patricia) of San Diego, CA and Ann of Albert Lea. Eleven grandchildren; Carly, Ben, Leah, Sam, Holly, Mike, Katie, Joe, Peter, Grace, and Emma; and sisters Lois (Vaaler) Define (St. Louis) and Kathy Thompson (St. Paul). Ray is preceded in death by his parents and brother Gerald. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the donor's choice.