Ray Malzahn

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ray A. Malzahn, age 97, of Joplin, passed away on July 11, 2026, with family by his side.

On August 23, 1953, Ray and Elizabeth Barrett, his heart’s companion and a gift from God, were married. They were blessed with two daughters, Karen Malzahn and Janet Malzahn (married to Scott Baxter).

Except for two years in the Army and until his retirement at the age of sixty-six, Ray spent his entire adult life in higher education. He earned a B.A. M.S. and Ph.D., all in Chemistry, and completed two years of post-doctoral research. He was employed by West Texas State University as Assistant Professor in 1963 and promoted to Full Professor in 1967. 

Also in 1967, Ray was offered the position of Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and in 1971, Vice President for Academic Affairs. In 1977, all the four V. P. positions were discontinued and Ray returned to full-time teaching. In 1980, Ray was employed by Missouri Southern State University, and served as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and Professor until retirement in 1995.

Ray was a Lutheran, beginning in infancy. He was an Elder, for many years, with the responsibility for assisting with visits to the hospitalized, taught Bible Classes and Catechism, served terms as President, and Vice President, chaired several committees, and helped rewrite the constitution three times. From 1977 to 1981, he served on the Board of Regents of Concordia Lutheran College in Austin, Texas, two years as chairman.

The funeral service will be held at 10 am, Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Joplin, Pastor Chris Ramstad and Pastor Lowell Rossow officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm, Monday, July 27, at Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Instead of flowers, it is suggested that gifts be sent to Martin Luther Day School, at 2616 Connecticut Ave., Joplin, MO. 64804.