Raymond Davis, Jr.

Raymond Davis, age 89, of Austin, MN, passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2024.

Family service to be held at a later date.

Raymond Joseph Davis, Jr. was born in Providence, RI, on June 13, 1935, the eldest of seven children born to Raymond J., Sr. and Teresa (Serydynski) Davis. He grew up in Providence and attended school there. His unwavering dedication to his country was evident through his ten years of proud service in the United States Air Force, where he bravely served during the Korean Conflict, the Cuban Crisis, and the Vietnam War.

In 1959, Raymond Jr. began a new chapter of his life by marrying Shirley LaRacco, with whom he welcomed two children: Lisa and Kyle. 

Throughout his life, Ray found solace and passion in playing guitar, traveling across the United States to share his gift of country melodies. In the early 1970s, he moved to Nashville, TN, to get into the music business.

After traveling working with several bands, Ray met Karen (Bakeberg) Swigerd, who he married on July 28, 1976, leading him to make his permanent home in Minnesota. Along with Karen, Ray gained two sons and a daughter: Mark, Margo, and Matt. While living in Minnesota, he found employment at Sears while still pursuing his musical passions.

Ray and Karen moved to Wyoming, where Ray ventured into the sign design business. After 20 years in business, Ray and Karen decided to move back to Rochester, MN, and eventually settled in Austin, MN, to be closer to their family. Ray’s commitment to community and camaraderie was evident through his active membership in the American Legion, VFW, and the Elks Club.

His musical endeavors were complemented by his talent as an artist and an innate knack for craftsmanship, making him a "jack of all trades" in the eyes of many.

Surviving Ray are his wife, Karen of Austin, MN; children: Kyle Davis of Pleasant Grove, UT; Mark (Loretta) Swigerd of Ortonville, MN; and Matthew (Kari) Swigerd of Austin, MN; 11 grandchildren: Natashia (Peterson) McDill, Ty Davis, Justin Davis, Karianna Wiegman, Brandon Swigerd, Joshua Berg, Nathan Berg, Nick Gores, Zoe Swigerd, Makiah Sandberg, and Abigail Swigerd; numerous great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren; and sisters: Carol Abbruzese, Donna Larson, Judy Guertin, and Terri Doonan.

Preceding him in death were his parents; daughters: Lisa Peterson and Margo Berg; and brothers: Jackie Davis and Billy Davis.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests donations in Ray’s honor be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.