Raymond N. Perala

Raymond "Ray" Nick Perala, age 82, of Lake Nebagamon, WI passed away on April 14th, 2024, in Duluth, Minnesota. He was born on April 7, 1942, to Nick and Viena Ahola in Superior, WI.

Due to the death of his parents, Ray was raised by his uncle, Eino Perala.  Ray grew up in Maple, WI, attended school there and graduated from Northwestern High School in 1960. He pursued his education at UWS, graduating with a degree in Business Management and a minor in Math.

Ray married Candace "Candy" Nys on June 16th, 1980.

Ray is survived by his wife, his brother Don Viinikka, Canada, children Christopher and spouse Courtney Perala, Superior, Cari Ann and spouse Andrew Paulson, Foxboro, and stepdaughter Amy Lynn and spouse Mike Ribaudo, Superior. He is also survived by Ziva, his Golden Retriever and Flower, his million-dollar cat of Lake Nebagamon.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, brother Marvin Perala, Washington, and stepson Gary "Poncho" Brill, Hibbing.

Ray was a very loving and proud member in the lives of his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and loved attending events and activities in their support.

Ray was a very dedicated and hard worker, growing his appraisal business for over 40 years. Ray was extremely dedicated to providing for his family and taking them on many wonderful trips. A favorite was a yearly trip to WI Dells. Ray and Candy also traveled to Maui for over 30 years where his smiles always seemed to shine a little brighter, especially when he was in the hot tub. Ray finally talked his wife into a cruise to the Caribbean in February of this year and greatly enjoyed it and was planning another one.

Ray had a passion for watching westerns, the Yellowstone series, country music, and coin collecting.  Ray loved spending time with friends and family, even if they were "slower than a herd of turtles" as he used to say. Ray also had a soft spot for animals and people, being a good neighbor and a genuinely kind person.

In his free time, Ray loved being outdoors, planting pine trees and working around the yard. Ray and Candy spent over 40 years living in Lake Nebagamon, regularly opening their home to animals in need. Ray's kindness and genuine heart will forever echo in the lives of all who knew him, people, and animals alike.

Ray’s family would like to send thanks to the care team at Essentia Health for their excellent care. Special thanks to Wanda and Reece for their dedication and personal care during this difficult time.

Ray will be missed dearly.

Visitation will begin at 10:30 AM, Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5th Street, Superior, until the 11:00 AM Memorial Service with Gary Banker officiating.

Following the service, a Celebration of Ray’s Life will be held at V.I.P – Vintage Italian Pizza, 1201 Tower Avenue, Superior, from 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM.

To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.