Delores Mae Raveling

Delores Mae Raveling, age 92 of Mankato, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at her home at Old Main Village.

Born on September 19, 1932, in Dexter, Minnesota, Delores was the daughter of Oliver and Ruth (Bollman) Lee. She graduated from Austin High School and went on to lead a life marked by love and dedication to her family. On October 1, 1950, Delores married Ben Burma at Evanger Lutheran Church in Sargeant, Minnesota. Together, they built a life that carried them through various communities in Southern Minnesota and Iowa, ultimately settling in Rochester for 18 years. In search of a warmer climate due to health considerations, they moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico, where they spent the next 17 years. After the passing of Ben in 1991, Delores found companionship again in 1992 when she married Thomas Raveling, a long-time friend who had also recently lost his wife.

Delores pursued a career as an interior decorator, showcasing her artistic flair and creativity in Minnesota and New Mexico. She found joy in gardening, canning, sewing, crocheting, reading, and solving puzzles, but her greatest passion was always her family. Delores cherished the time spent with her loved ones, creating lasting memories that will forever be held dear.

She is survived by her three children: Jerry Burma of Radium Springs, NM; Penny (Monte Benning) Burma of Minnesota Lake; and Ruth Ledwein of Lake Crystal. Delores leaves behind a legacy of love with 10 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Caroline Olson-Lyngen; sisters-in-law Yvonne Lee, Cherry Lee, and Marie Burma; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Furthermore, she is remembered by Tom's children, David and Rita, along with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands Ben in 1991 and Thomas in 2006, as well as her siblings Adrian Lee, Donald Lee, Lila Peterson, Nels Lee, and Robert Lee. She is also preceded by Thomas's children, Thomas Raveling Jr. and Joyce Raveling.

A memorial service to honor Delores's life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service. In alignment with her wishes, Delores's body has been donated to Mayo Health Systems.

Delores Mae Raveling will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, unwavering strength, and the immense love she fostered within her family. Her presence will be dearly missed but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by

Mankato Mortuary.

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