Raymond Howard Gulbranson

Raymond Gulbranson, 87, of Mayville, ND died Thursday, September 1, 2016 after a brief illness at the Sanford Hospital in Mayville. Prior to his passing, he had been a long time resident under the loving care of the staff at the Luther Memorial Home in Mayville. “Four score and seven years ago” on July 14, 2016 Raymond “came forth” as the median of nine children born to Harold and Alma (Brend) Gulbranson. Ray grew up and attended high school (occasionally) in Mayville, where he distinguished himself as being one of the finest all-around athletes ever to don a Lions uniform. Ray excelled in four sports: basketball, baseball, football and track. After graduating in 1949 Ray remained in Mayville, working as a skilled carpenter and builder as was his earthly father, Harold, before him and his heavenly father above him. Throughout his life, Ray retained an avid interest in and participated in a variety of sports, games and activities. He loved to hunt and fish; played independent basketball and was an original Mayville Red Cap baseball star. He also enjoyed and excelled at bowling, pool and pinochle. Ray exhibited much talent in all of these pursuits. In fact he was so good at so many different things that a lot of myths and legends have been spread about his physical prowess and athletic feats; some of which are actually true! For example: He did not hit a baseball out of the park and over the school, it hit the bell and then it fell on top of the roof. Also while he never bowled a perfect 300 game, he did roll an even more rare 190 without any strikes. Yes, he did dig out by hand and build a basement under his home at the age of 55 but he did not dig the Panama Canal. Ray personally was the epitome of the strong, silent type. His words were few but precious. Ray was not overtly religious but was deeply spiritual. He had a personal relationship with his Savior and was guided by an internal moral compass which kept him out of trouble. Ray was preceded in death by his parents; five sisters: Margaret (Lloyd Schultz), Gertrude (Vernon Garretts), Kathryn (Bud McLain), Barbara (Curly McLain), Loretta (Leland Hiestand) and one brother: Jerry (Judy) Gulbranson. Ray is survived and will be sorely missed by his younger sister: Dorothy McGowan and his baby brother: Darryl Gulbranson; plus a plethora of relatives and a community of friends. He had no enemies. He lived in peace with all and can now rest in peace as well. Visitation: Will be one hour prior to the service at the chapel. Memorial Service: 1:00 PM Friday, September 9, 2016 at Luther Memorial Home Chapel in Mayville, ND. Burial: Will take place in the Perry Cemetery, Portland, ND.