Frederick W. Ray

Frederick W. Ray, after a long-fought battle with Alzheimer's, passed away peacefully at age 88. As the only child of the late Frederick W. Ray and the late, but long-lived Margaret Ray, Fred went out of his way to make up for any lack of solitude during his married lives. First, he was one of those fortunate souls to find the love of two remarkable women to share his life, the inspiring Ann O'Sullivan Ryan Ray for the past 42 hectic, fast-paced, kid-filled and loving years and the late June Kruse Ray for 16 wonderful years. To make sure there was never a quiet moment in the house, he treasured the comings and goings of all 10 (yes, count 'em 10) of his children, Rick (Mariella) Ray of Italy, Bill (Susan) Ray of Oregon, Jim Ray, John (Cathy) Ryan, Faith (Mark) Konchan, Roger (Debbie) Ryan of Colorado, Christine Ray, Noreen (Richard) Rotramel, Michael (Mary Anne) Ray of Connecticut and Dr. Joey (Ruthie) Ray of Minnesota. A voracious reader and wordsmith, Fred was also proud of his role as a First Lieutenant in WWII fighting to liberate captive towns in Europe, his 35 years as statistician at Illinois Bell (retired 1980) and his ordination and dedication as a Catholic Deacon in 1984. He also held a treasured spot in his heart for each and every one of his 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. While we have been deprived of Dad's twinkling eyes, subtle sense of humor and charming company for several years, we invite you to celebrate his memory on Sunday, Aug. 15 from 3 to 9 p.m. at Colonial-Wojciechowski Funeral Home, 8025 W. Golf Rd., Niles. Funeral Monday, Aug. 16 at 10:30 a.m. from the funeral home to St. Isaac Jogues Church. Mass 11 a.m. Interment All Saints. Memorials to Alzheimer's Disease appreciated. Info 847-581-0536 or www.colonialfuneral.com.