Verlyn Joseph Raaen

Verlyn Joseph Raaen, 79, of Prior Lake, passed away on Tuesday, August 12. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Prior Lake (16400 Duluth Ave) on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 11am with a Time of Gathering 2 hours prior to Mass. Father Tom Walker will be presiding over services.

Verlyn was born and raised in Winona, Minnesota. Growing up as a quiet and observant city kid, he shared a close bond with his brother as they went through school together. Though naturally shy, he had a heart full of warmth and kindness, which became more evident to everyone who knew him.

He met the love of his life, his high school sweetheart Kay, at Winona High School. The pair graduated together in the Class of 1965. Just two years later, on June 17, 1967, they were married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Winona.

In 1969, Verlyn was drafted into the U.S. Army and served proudly for three years during the Vietnam War. He served as a dedicated helicopter repairman on his base in Vietnam.

After returning home, he built a career as a draftsman engineer with Howard Needles Tammen & Bergendoff before dedicating over 25 years of service to the City of Prior Lake. He was known not only for his technical skill but for his integrity, humility, and unwavering work ethic.

His passion for cars began early and never faded. From the yellow and black 'Cuda he cherished to cruising around Prior Lake in his red Corvette, his love for fast cars was lifelong. Car magazines could always be found tucked under his Bible and reading glasses.He had a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life—trains, lighthouses, long walks, and naps (which he could take just about anywhere). He found happiness in traveling with his family, from road trips across the country to unforgettable cruises that created lifelong memories.

Above all, he was a man of God. Faith was his foundation. His honesty, kindness, quiet humor, and love for his family defined him. He adored his family and found joy in every moment spent with those he loved.

Verlyn is survived by his loving wife, Kay; daughter, Shannon (Michael) Rohr; granddaughters, Olivia and Isabelle Rohr; brother, Bob (Kim) Raaen; nieces, Jessie Raaen and Emily (Sebastian) Stelck; great-nephew, Everett; sister-in-law, Darlene Carlson; nieces-in-law, Darcey (Jim) Northam and Janelle (Jim) Larson; great nieces and nephews-in-law, Aimee, Paige (Dan), Cal (Danielle), and Brad (Taylor); and other loving family and friends.

Verlyn is preceded in death by his parents, Irving and Ruth Renk; parents-in-law, Otis and Winifred Leslie; brothers-in-law, Darrell Leslie, Leonard Carlson.