Raymond I. Hakomaki, 97, died March 4, 2018.
Born on Oct. 25, 1920, in Sparta, Minn., he graduated from Gilbert High School in 1938 and from the University of Minnesota in 1943, with a degree in aeronautical engineering. In 1947, he received a master of science in the same field from the U. He joined the Army Air Force in 1943 and served one tour of duty. On Dec. 23, 1944, he married Millie Huettner in Mobridge, S.D.
Ray was inducted into the University of Minnesota Swimmers’ Hall of Fame in 2005. Nicknamed “the Flying Lion,” he specialized in the 50-yard freestyle, capturing the Big Ten bronze medal in 1942 and silver medal in 1943. At the 1986 United States Masters National Championships, he won all six events he entered. He was inducted into the U of M Aquatics Hall of Fame in 1987.
Ray is survived by his wife, Millie; their four children, Sue (Steve Granger), Jim, Nancy (Bill Moss) and Mark (Bill Huebsch); and two grandchildren.
A brief memorial service will be held May 3 at 6:45 p.m. at St. Anthony Park United Church of Christ, preceded by a 5 p.m. visitation.
