Raymond Olawsky

Raymond Donald Olawsky, 92, was welcomed into his heavenly home Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Avera Bormann Manor in Parkston.  Funeral service will be Saturday, August 1 at 10:00 am at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Armour with burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery in Corsica.  Visitation will be Friday, July 31 from 5 to 7 pm, with a 7:00 pm prayer service, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Armour.

Raymond Donald Olawsky was born on January 6, 1934, to Emil and Mayme (Goldammer) Olawsky. He was raised on the family farm and attended a nearby country school through the eighth grade.

Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army from October 3, 1956, until receiving his honorable discharge on November 18, 1957. On August 30, 1959, he married Edna Sperlich, at Immanuel Lutheran Church near Dimock. Together they made their home on the family farm, where Ray spent many years farming.

In addition to farming, he worked for Menning Implement, the Corsica Cheese Plant, CHS, and later served as the janitor for CHS and the Corsica bank. No matter where he worked, Ray was known for his dependable nature and friendly smile.

Ray was a faithful member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Armour.  He devoted his time to serving his church as a council member and also served as Sunday School Superintendent at St. John’s Lutheran Church, rural Dimock. His faith was an important part of his life, and he quietly lived it through service and kindness.

Ray found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved taking drives through the countryside, singing, and, most of all, visiting with people. A true people person, he made friends with every stranger and enjoyed striking up conversations wherever he went. His warm personality, genuine interest in others, and welcoming spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Grateful for having shared his life are his five daughters, Phyllis (Scott) Ehler of Parkston, Judy (Alan) Scholten of Armour, Cindy (Larry) Van Otterloo of Prinsburg, Minnesota, Sandra (Donald) Baier of Armour, and Kathy (Jim) Holter of Platte; 12 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Edna; a grandson, Drew Holter; two brothers, Marvin and Donald; and one sister, Evelyn Ver Wey.

Ray's legacy of faith, hard work, kindness, and love for family and friends will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.