Raymond "Chief" Kier, age 44, of Mahnomen, MN, died Friday, May 6, 2011 in his home.

Raymond John Kier was born on March 28, 1967 in Mahnomen. As a small child, he moved with his family to the state of Washington. They later returned to Naytahwaush and Raymond attended school in both Naytahwaush and Mahnomen. In 1985, Raymond entered the United States Army Reserves proudly serving his country. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the Naytahwaush community and began working in construction. Raymond was employed for many years at Wanzek Construction of Fargo, ND.

He loved spending time with his family and cherished each of his grandchildren. Raymond liked to entertain his extended family and often cooked wonderful meals for them. He had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, two of which, Samantha and Chloe, will always remember him as "Dude." Raymond enjoyed working on cars especially when he had the help of his son, Terry. His puppy was never far from his side. Raymond also loved the winter season and ice fishing.

Raymond is survived by parents: John Kier of Fairbault, MN and Shirley Kier of Mahnomen; one son, Terry (Michelle) Burnette of Pelican Rapids, MN; one daughter, LeAnne (George Hatfield) Anderson of Naytahwaush; two brothers: Roger (Cindy) Stevens of Mahnomen and Doran Neeland of Ebro, MN; three sisters, Carol Ann Bunker of Fargo, ND and Deb Kier of Mahnomen, and Sandra Dann of Naytahwaush; seven grandchildren; 2 nephews, Christopher and Michael; five nieces: Samantha, Theresa, Ann Marie, Chloe, and Sam; and his special friend, Paula Littlewolf.

Traditional Funeral Services will begin at 11:00am on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex in Naytahwaush, MN, with Mike Dahl leading. Serving as pallbearers will be Bill Beckman, Pete Alvarado, Jessie Alvarado, Christopher Kier, Ramiro Alvarado, and Michael Thorpe. Honorary bearers will be all of his grandchildren, his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, all of his co-workers at Wanzek, and his good friend, Melvin Anderson. Visitation will be held from 9-11am on Tuesday morning at the Sports Complex. Burial will take place in St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery in Naytahwaush.