Gene A. Ras

Gene passed away at home with family and friends at his side, December 13, 2023, shortly after receiving his fourth diagnosis of cancer. He had battled and managed to survive the earlier incidents over the last 15 years. These successes were made possible by the competence of the medical staff that surrounded him. He was a strong and determined individual. Gene was a quietly spiritual person, and was warmly welcomed into heaven by his Lord and Savior.

Gene was born and raised in Hancock, MN.

Gene served his country for four years primarily in the London area while in the US Air Force.

In his professional career Gene was an accounting manager for BNSF Railroad in St. Paul. He is fondly remembered as a person who could repair almost anything, and was a competent DIY individual, whether it be mechanical, electrical, construction, motor repair, or landscaping. Gene enjoyed the time he was able to spend at his cabin/home at Big Sandy Lake, which he and Lynda owned for almost 40 years. Gene and Lynda spent 13 winter seasons in SW Florida as retirees. Gene was an avid reader, and enjoyed discussing his latest book with anyone who would listen. He was a very competent chef at his outdoor grill, and experimented with just about anything that he was asked to try. Having obtained an early retirement from his job, he worked for a relative’s CPA firm and did numerous tax returns. He had very sharp finance and numerical skills.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, George & Frances Ras; as well as brother, Dennis (Karen); and sister, Vicky (Rick Leach).

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Lynda; son, Brent (Kate); and grandsons, Matthew (11) and Micah (9). Gene is also survived by brother, George (Mollie Jean Edson) of Ellensburg, WA; sister, Donna (Greg Wagner) of Yucaipa, CA; and brother, Todd (Erin) of St. Michael, MN.

Gene longed to be able to watch his grandsons develop their basketball skills, and to witness their progress. He will now be able to be tuned in from heaven, and not have to climb the bleachers!

Friends have commented on Gene’s memorable, forever smile, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him. His memory will live on forever in our hearts.

Memorial Service 11:00 AM Friday, January 12, 2024 at Calvary Church, 2120 N. Lexington Ave., Roseville. Visitation will be held at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home - Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St. at County Rd B, from 4-7 PM Thursday 1/11, and at the church from 10-11 AM Friday 1/12.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the U of M Cancer Foundation, Calvary Church, or Eagle Brook Church.