Raymond John Stoeckl, 75, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away March 14, 2022.

Raymond John Stoeckl was born January 1, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois to Henry and Vilma Stoeckl. His family, including sisters Vilma, Delores and Jean moved to Hollywood, California where he spent his child and early adulthood.  Ray journeyed to Zanzibar, Africa, with his eldest sister and brother-in-law, Vilma and Joe.  He enjoyed and reminisced about his time studying abroad during high school.  He answered the call to service when he was drafted into the United States Army training as a medic and was stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. He served 12/6/1966 to 12/8/1968.

Ray met and married his first wife, Linda Jorgenson in 1969 and raised three children together, John, Jamie and Julie. They resided in the metropolitan area of Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He enthusiastically coached soccer, softball and served for several years as a pack leader in the Boy Scouts of America.  When not working as a Computer Programmer at Deluxe Check Printers, he could be found fishing in his boat and storytelling about the one that got away.

He married his second wife, Barbara Raatz, in 2000 and continued to pursue his interests in travel, treasure hunting, cheering on the Minnesota Vikings as well as avid reading.  Ray retired from the Transportation Security Administration in 2013 where he enjoyed his role as TSA Supervisor. After identifying a beautiful mountain home in the Black Hills, Ray and Barbara relocated to Hot Springs, SD for their retirement.

He loved to watch the wildlife that frequented the property and entertain guests around the many special attractions in the area such as Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.  He especially loved visits from his children/grandchildren and seeing the property being enjoyed by all.  Together, Ray and Barbara, spent 8 years enjoying this special community.  Ray was called home to be with the Lord on March 14, 2022, just as he wished, in his home and surrounded by the things he treasured most.

Ray is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Julie (Troy) Brandt; sons, Raymond John Stoeckl II; James Stoeckl; sister, Henrietta Peterson; 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hot Springs, SD.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD.  Condolences may be left at www.chamberlainmccolleys.com