RAYMOND LYNN SALMANS

Services for Raymond Lynn Salmans, will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 14, 2023, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church.   He passed away on October 5, 2023, at the age of 86. 

Raymond was born on April 12, 1937, in Zook, Kansas, to Lawrence and Mary Salmans.  He received his education in Zook, graduating with the class of 1955.  After graduation, he enlisted with the US Air Force and proudly served his country for two years. His military service symbolized his unwavering patriotism and dedication to protecting the freedoms that we hold dear. Later he joined the University of Tulsa where he earned his associate degree.

Raymond's illustrious career began with Rockwell, which later became Boeing. He dedicated his professional life as a logistic analyst and made valuable contributions to the industry.  Raymond married Linda Louise Ackerman on August 3, 1963 in Larned, Kansas at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Raymond was a social butterfly who never met a stranger. His warm and friendly nature allowed him to strike up conversations with anyone he came into contact with. He had an innate ability to make people feel comfortable and valued during their interactions. He selflessly gave his time by volunteering at the Veterans Center and local nursing homes, brightening the lives of those he encountered.

Beyond his professional accomplishments and military service, Raymond enjoyed pursuing various hobbies and interests that added color to his life. Fishing, gardening, and sports were among his greatest passions. He derived great pleasure from cheering on his favorite teams, such as the Kansas City Dodgers, LA Dodgers, Kansas University Jayhawks, and the Claremore Zebras.  He also enjoyed announcing the games at Claremore. 

One of Raymond's proudest accomplishments was being inducted into the American Legion Hall of Fame, on April 25, 2021—an accolade that recognized his significant contributions and unwavering commitment.

Those family members that survive include his children Stephanie Schwanke and husband Jim, Tobi Riggs and husband Bruce, Chris Salmans and wife Jennifer, and Lisa Mays and husband Ryan; his grandchildren Willie Schwanke, Whitney Mendez and husband Nick, Austin Riggs and wife Bradleigh, Alex Riggs and wife Tori, Riley Salmans, Claire Mays, Chloe Mays, Caroline Mays, and Mason Moore; additionally, his great-grandchildren Jireh Mendez, Ellie Riggs, Ingrid Mendez, Zoe Riggs, Everlea Mendez, Brody Riggs, and Aurora Moore; his brother Gene Salmans and wife Linda; his sister Elizabeth Winkler and husband Chuck, and Beverly Rosso; his sister-in-law Joyce Salmans; his wife's siblings Kathy Beach and husband Charlie, Lloyd Blakley, Tom Ackerman and wife Deana, and Larry Ackerman . Raymond was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his wife Linda, along with his siblings Lee Salmans, Rosie Unruh, and faithful canine companion Sammy.