Raymond George Banken was born September 18, 1915, at Faribault to parents Peter and Mary (Langeslay) Banken. He was baptized and confirmed at the Church of St. Lawrence in Faribault. In 1928, he moved with his family to Hegbert Township. Raymond graduated from Appleton High School in 1936.May 15, 1941, he was married to Mildred M. Puhl at Assumption Catholic Church in Morris and they farmed in Synnes Township for a number of years. Mildred died on December 14, 1972. Ray retired from farming in 1975. On November 15, 1975, he was married to Anna May Johnson. Anna May died on April 22, 1982. On April 8, 1988, he then married Edythe Vesse. Edythe died on March 10, 2006.Ray enjoyed fishing, traveling, and spending time with family. He was hardworking and proud of the farm. He also enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins, Vikings football, and professional wrestling.Ray died on Saturday, September 10th, at Golden Living Care Center-Meadow Lane in Benson. He had attained 95 years, 11 months, and 22 days of age.He is survived by four children: Steven Banken of Morris, Jeffrey (Kim) Banken, Sr. of Chaska, Edward (Faith) Banken of Morris, and Bea (David) Telford of Appleton; step-children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; two sisters: Irene (Austin) McGeary of Danvers and Mary Jane McGeary of Benson; several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.He is preceded in death by his parents; his three wives; and four brothers: Theodore, Floris, Frank, and Paul Banken.