Ray John Carstensen, 86 of Warrensburg, Missouri, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Research Medical Center in Kansas City.

Ray was born September 20, 1939, in Sioux City, Iowa, to George Andrew and Katherine (Harms) Carstensen. After graduating from LeMars High School, he served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960. Ray married Mary Lou Carlyle on August 16, 2003, at Warrensburg Northside Christian Church. Over the years, he worked in radio assembly, cable technology, law enforcement as a deputy sheriff, and as a ham radio operator. A proud patriot, Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, and firearms.

Survivors include his daughter, Renee Hawkins (Jeff); sister, Mildred Tietjen; grandchildren, Todd and Shara; great-grandchild, Kyree; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brother, Wendel Carstensen; and sister, Alice Mines.

Funeral services are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Williams Funeral Chapel in Warrensburg with Pastor Joel Kurz officiating. Interment will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #131 and United States Army Honor Guard.