Raymond Dale Nilsson

Ray departed this world suddenly on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center with his soulmate at his side. He was 59 years old.

Ray was born in Walnut Creek, California to Ken and Rovina Nilsson, and was the fifth born of seven children. During his childhood, he and his family lived in California, Arizona, and Colorado where he graduated from high school. In 1997, Ray met his soulmate, Troy Donaldson, with whom he would spend the rest of his life with.

Ray had several jobs during his life. He was an experienced stone mason, with some of his work featured in architectural magazines. He traveled the country with the carnival circuit a couple of times, worked for lumber companies in both Idaho and California, and spent the last fourteen years of his life working for Frazier Industrial as a steel fabricator.

Ray made friends easily, and was a very generous person. He would oftentimes set aside his own personal comforts to help out a friend or loved one. He had an empathetic, sentimental side, and was known to shed a tear for something as simple as a sappy Hallmark commercial, which would naturally earn him some good-natured ribbing. He also enjoyed camping, watching football, playing pool, and spoiling his fur babies.

Ray will be remembered for his friendly, outgoing personality, his willingness to help others out when he could, and his slightly annoying habit of correcting other people’s grammar, but it’s all good now. Until we’re together again, those cherished memories will warm our hearts, and bring a smile to our faces. We love you Ray.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken Nilsson and Rovina Nilsson; three brothers, Skip Nilsson, Mike Nilsson, and Eric Nilsson; and sister, Valerie Nilsson. Ray is survived by his soulmate, Troy Donaldson; two sisters, Vicki Dokken and Christine Nilsson, and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.