Raymond Christian Bentzen was born June 3, 1928 at the farm home of his parents, Otto and Hannah (Feldt) Bentzen. He lived his entire life 1 mile east and 1/4 mile north of Naper, Nebraska, except for the two years spent in the U.S. Army.

Raymond passed away Sunday morning, September 4, 2005 at Avera St. Anthonys Hospital in ONeill, Nebraska, surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren.

He was raised by his loving Swedish and Danish parents to be honest, hardworking, loving and generous.

After two years of military service, he met his wife of 51 years, Ramona (Westland) Bentzen of Minnesota. They were married June 6, 1954 at Hayward, Minnesota and have since farmed and ranched. To this union two daughters and three sons were born, who presented them with 15 grandchildren.

Behind the scenes and with no desire for publicity, Raymond provided assistance that touched the lives of countless friends and neighbors in their time of need.

He was a member of the First Congregational Church in Naper, Nebraska. He served on the Boyd County Board of Supervisors for sixteen years; the Region IV Mental Health Board; and the Sandhills Ag Valuation Board. He also served several years on the Boyd County Extension Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Hannah; and two brothers: Jack of Norfolk, Nebraska and Art of Santa Maria, California.

He is survived by his wife, Ramona of Naper, Nebraska; daughters: Lauri (Ed) McNulty of Mitchell, Nebraska; Karen (Lee) Richardson of ONeill, Nebraska; sons: Ray (Elaine) of Ashland, Nebraska; Mike (Julianne) of Harlan, Iowa; John (Jan) of Tabor, South Dakota; his grandchildren: Bob, Kelly, B.J., Molly, Jessica, Joy, Courtney, Tami, Sheila, Jackie, Sara, Erin, Charlie, James and John.

Until his health started failing, Raymond enjoyed providing encouragement to young farmers, being involved in local politics, arguing his point of view with a passion, staying current on the days events and spending time with family and friends.

Raymond was a very loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by the whole community.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2005 at 10:30 AM at Auditorium in Naper, NE. Burial will be in the Knollcrest Cemetery, Naper. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the Auditorium.