Raymond Raczkowski

Raymond "Ray" Raczkowski, born August 2, 1925 lived with purpose, as a teaching man who made a difference; resourceful, strong and selfless until he peacefully passed away at home oneeptember 19, 2010. Born in Plymouth, PA, Ray was the son of Stanley and Stella Raczkowski both now deceased of Johnson City, NY. He is the husband of Norma J. Raczkowski, Pittsboro NC and Owego, NY and previously Big Flats, and Skaneateles, NY The father of six children; Laurie Cortright, Moscow, ID, Karen Radenberg, Odessa, NY, Rob Raczkowski, Stamford, CT, MaryEllen Raczkowski deceased, Ron Raczkowski, Chapel Hill, NC and Norine Castle, Eagle, ID; grandfather to Jessica Cortright, Gerry Cortright, Dareneendall, Tracy Bloom, Allison Bloom, Jessica Haischer Radenberg, Jacqueline Raczkowski, Ryan Raczkowski, Taylor Raczkowski, Jocelyn Armstrong Castle, Paige Castle, Macaire Castle, and Kira Castle; brother of Stanley J. Raczkowski of Silverthorne, CO; father-in-law to Joe Ferlito Laurie, Robert Radenberg Karen and Amelie Raczkowski Ron; Great Grandfather to Matthew Bryan Raczkowski Ryan, Dylaneendall Daren, Zayah Cortright Gerry; Best friend with Gerry Hink. Ray retired in 1985 as an executive from The NY Telephone Verizon Communications following 38 years of service. He was a believer and follower, with an uncompromisingly strong work ethic. A selfless man, he believed ineelping others when and where it was neessary. Ray lived with simplicity, and was a "How to" type teacher for those willing to learn. He enjoyed fixing, making, doing and held the belief that something should be done right the first time or not at all. Ray was athletic and loved sports water skiing, sailing, fishing and motorcycle maintenance. Ray was a consistent facilitator with a conservative approach to drive education and promote a strong work ethic. He was also a skilled craftsman, using the right tools and reusing materials to maintain, create, re-create and improve things. Ray served our country in the US Navy during World War II and also in the Korean Conflict. He received the Asian Pacific Medal, American Theatre Medal, and the Victory Medal during his service time. On Saturday October 30, 2010, the family will hold a service and greet friends at "The Farm", 926 Welch Road, Owego, NY 13827. The service begins at 11:00AM followed by a casual lunch and visiting time until 3pm. Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=dot%20beavel%20eagle%20id&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl It would be helpful to let us know if you are coming and you are welcome if you let us know or not! Email: Memorial4RRR@gmail.com We welcome stories and pictures! Online obituary and condolences are at : www.hallwynne.com, Select "Obituaries". Please feel free to sign the guest book! Arrangements for Mr. Raczkowski are under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service & Cremation of Pittsboro, NC.