Dick Rayl's untimely death Saturday saddened his family, friends and colleagues. He had retired two days earlier. He was looking forward to spending more time with his family and occasionally taking on a special task at North Dakota State University, where he'd served as vice president for finance for 13 years.
Rayl was a public servant who was grounded in the private sector. He'd started out in business at a West Fargo company, went to work as top budget man in the administration of Gov. George Sinner, and then took on the challenge of higher education finance at NDSU. He was very good at it.
During Rayl's service, the university's budget and enrollment grew. The school expanded its public/private research partnerships, especially during the administration of President Joseph Chapman. The campus added to its physical plant, including the downtown center, research buildings and new residence halls. Rayl was a key player in developing the finances for every major project.
He was a fine man. He worked hard to make his adopted state a better place. He succeeded. His legacy in North Dakota is secure.
We join his family and friends in mourning his passing and celebrating his life.
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