Raymond Theodore Potthoff, Jr., 84, of Corvallis, Oreg., formerly of Minnesota, passed away on November 7, 2025, in Corvallis.
Ray was born on July 16, 1941, in St. Paul, Minn., to Raymond Potthoff Sr. and Bessie Belden. He graduated from Harding High School in St. Paul with the Class of 1959 and later continued his education at the University of Minnesota. A devoted educator, Ray spent 42 years teaching history and social studies at Spring Valley High School and Kingsland Middle School. He was deeply passionate about helping young people understand the world around them, and generations of students benefited from his dedication.
Ray was united in marriage to Barbara Potthoff. They shared 53 wonderful years together, raising their family and building a life rooted in love, curiosity, and outdoor adventure. Ray was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fly fishing, camping, canoeing, birding, gardening and traveling. His love for teaching extended far beyond the classroom, and he was happiest when sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences with others.
Left to cherish his memory are his son Anthony Potthoff, and grandchildren Ethan, Tensae, Leonard, Ivy and Quinn, all of Corvallis, Oreg.; and his brother John (Jan) Potthoff of Bancroft, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Barbara Potthoff, his son Theodore Potthoff, and his brother Gregory Potthoff.
A celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Spring Valley, Minn., with Pastor Mark Woodward officiating. Visitation will be from 12-2 p.m. at the church prior to the start of the service. Burial will be at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Spring Valley.
Online condolences may be left at www.hindtfuneralhomes.com.
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