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Sweet Home Today
By the People, for the People
Raynard 'Butch' Edward McCormick Jr. Passes Away at 86
Longtime electrical engineer and solar program contributor dies in Oregon
Published on Feb. 19, 2026
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Raynard 'Ray' or 'Butch' Edward McCormick Jr., an electrical engineer who worked at companies like Lockheed Martin, Sylvania, and McDonnell Douglas over his career, passed away on February 10, 2026 at the age of 86 in Brownsville, Oregon. McCormick was involved in a solar program in the Mojave Desert during his time at McDonnell Douglas, and some of the software he created is still used in the industry today.
Why it matters
McCormick's work in the solar industry contributed to advancements in renewable energy technology, and his long career in the engineering field highlights the important role that technical professionals play in driving innovation and progress. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him professionally and personally.
The details
McCormick was born in Iola, Kansas and grew up in Mexico, Missouri before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area for college and his early career. He met his wife Linda while playing volleyball, and the couple later relocated to the Portland, Oregon area where McCormick worked at Electro Scientific Industries (ESI) and Tektronix before retiring. In retirement, McCormick and his wife settled in Brownsville, Oregon.
- McCormick was born on October 10, 1939.
- McCormick passed away on February 10, 2026 at the age of 86.
- McCormick's sister, Sharon K. McCormick, passed away in 2022.
The players
Raynard 'Butch' Edward McCormick Jr.
An electrical engineer who worked at companies like Lockheed Martin, Sylvania, and McDonnell Douglas over his career, and was involved in a solar program in the Mojave Desert.
Linda (Lewis) McCormick
McCormick's wife, who the couple met while playing volleyball.
Sharon K. McCormick
McCormick's sister, who passed away in 2022.
The takeaway
McCormick's long career as an electrical engineer, including his contributions to the solar industry, demonstrates the important role that technical professionals play in driving innovation and progress. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him both professionally and personally.


