Raymond James Stroebe

April 22, 1978 – January 18, 2026

Raymond James Stroebe, fondly known as Ray, peacefully left this earth on January 17, 2026.

Ray was born in Billings, Montana on April 22, 1978, to Conrad and Teresa (Dahl) Stroebe. He always loved that his birthday fell on Earth Day. A detail that is fitting for someone who appreciated open spaces and the freedom of being outdoors.

Ray attended Lockwood Schools, St. Francis Elementary, Billings Central Catholic High School and later received his diploma from Billings Senior High School. He loved sports, especially basketball, baseball, and football, and had a particular appreciation for basketball culture. He always managed to scout the best collector Jordan and basketball shoes. Even when he wasn’t playing, he enjoyed being connected to the game and the community around it.

In high school, Ray met Ann, and they married in 1999. Together they raised four children, who were the greatest joy of Ray’s life. Being a father was what he was most proud of. Whether it was family bike rides through Riverfront Park, teaching his kids how to snowboard and ski, or taking a good road trip, often heading to the Oregon Coast. Ray cherished time spent with his children. No matter where life took him, his role as a dad always came first.

Ray worked with his father in Billings for a time as a tax data technician, and later moved to Oregon where he worked in roofing and siding sales. His job took him to Boise and then back to Portland. Ray enjoyed the change of scenery and the experiences each place brought.

In recent years, Ray made his home in Philipsburg, Montana – one of his favorite places. He found comfort and community there while working at Discovery Ski Area and serving at the Bunkhouse. He loved the town’s pace, the surrounding mountains, and the sense of belonging he felt. Ray was especially fond of his dogs, who brought him constant companionship.

Ray enjoyed biking, especially putting bikes together piece by piece and sharing them with others. Making sure everyone had a good bike to ride was one of the ways he showed love. He also loved snowboarding for the quiet moments and breathtaking views found at the top of the mountain.

Ray was preceded in death by his grandparents Francis and Ellen Stroebe, Bernard and M’Lis Dahl, his sister Marion Stroebe, his nephew Cash Taylor, and niece Imogen Hutchinson.

He is survived by his parents, Conrad and Teresa Stroebe; his siblings Marie Taylor, Elizabeth (Justin) Gress, Emily (Brian) Edwards, Francis Stroebe, Genevieve Burhans, Hannah (Travis) Hutchinson, Chalice Stroebe, and Xavier Stroebe; his children Brianna Stroebe, Erica Stroebe, James Stroebe, and Spencer Stroebe; and his beloved granddaughter, Tessa.

Ray will be remembered for his warm smile, easy laughter, and the way he made people feel welcome and loved. In honor of Ray and his Earth Day birthday, his family will be planting trees in some of his favorite places. There will be a memorial service on February 15th, 2026 at The Philipsburg Theatre for those who wish to celebrate his life.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.