Raymond E. Royer, known to friends and family as Ray, embarked on his final road trip on August 10, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on May 20, 1962, in the small town of Philip, South Dakota. Ray was a man who lived life in the fast lane, both literally and metaphorically. He passed away in Blackhawk, South Dakota, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and the unmistakable scent of motor oil.

Ray was the kind of guy who could fix anything with a roll of duct tape and a smile. After graduating from Philip High School in 1980, he jumped into the driver's seat of life, becoming a truck driver. His career path later took a turn onto the tracks, where he worked for DM&E Railroad for many years, before shifting gears to work for Frontier Stone Company. Ray was the embodiment of the phrase "work hard, play harder," and his work ethic was only matched by his passion for his hobbies.

A true gearhead, Ray loved drag racing, a hobby that allowed him to combine his love for speed with his mechanical prowess. When he wasn't leaving competitors in the dust, he could be found in the great outdoors, pheasant hunting with the same precision and patience he applied to his work. But perhaps his favorite pastime was watching his grandchildren, Jayda and Cutler, play sports. He was their biggest fan, and not even a broken-down car could keep him from cheering them on from the sidelines.

He is survived by his son, Jeremy (Danielle) of Sioux Falls, and his beloved grandchildren, Jayda and Cutler (who will miss their grandpa); sister, Cindy (Terry) Nelson of Britton, SD; nephews, Dustin (Tracy) Nelson and daughter, Kylie, of Menomonie, WI, and Robert Nelson and son, Carter, of Britton, SD.

Preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Bonnie Royer; his brother, Robert "Bobby" Royer; and his uncle, Bob Tuning.

Ray was the kind of man who could be described as loving, handy, and intelligent, but those words only scratch the surface. He was a walking encyclopedia of car parts, a wizard with a wrench, and a comedian who didn't need a stage to leave his audience in stitches. His laughter was infectious, his heart was as big as his toolbox, and his absence will be felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

As we bid farewell to Ray, let's not say goodbye but rather "see you later," because a man like him never truly leaves. He's just off on another adventure, probably drag racing with the angels. Ray, you were one of a kind, and your memory will continue to rev the engines of our hearts. Keep on truckin', good buddy, until we meet again.

A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Rush Funeral Home in Philip.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Masonic Cemetery in Philip with Pastor Kathy Chesney officiating.