Raymond Erlandson

Raymond Thor Erlandson, 67, of Rapid City, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 25, 2026.Ray was born on May 25, 1959, in Dearborn, MI, to Raymond G. and Evelyn (Nilson) Erlandson. 

He graduated from Dearborn High School in 1977 and built a career in the building trades, specializing in framing. His work took him to South Carolina for several years before he returned to Michigan, eventually moving to Rapid City about six years ago to care for his father. There, he completed several projects on the family property, including building a barn, a shed, and an addition to the farmhouse.

Ray was known for keeping in touch with loved ones, frequently catching up with family and old friends on the phone. He cherished the serenity of lake life and enjoyed fishing whenever possible, but his greatest joy was the time he shared with the ones he loved. He had many stories to tell, always chuckling with a smile on his face—so much so that his best friends called him Chuckie. Ray was tender-hearted and known for helping others in any way he could, despite his own physical challenges later in life. His positivity during those challenging times remains an inspiration to those of us who knew him well.

He is survived by his father, Raymond G. Erlandson; his brother, Eric Erlandson; his sister, Ingrid Erlandson (Doran); and his niece and nephew, Leah and Grahm Erlandson. He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Erlandson.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Following the visitation, a procession at 11:00 a.m. will take Ray to Lakeview Cemetery in Bellaire for a graveside service officiated by Pastor Scott Lindenberg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Torch Lake Protection Alliance, https://tlpa.co/donate/

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com