Ray adored his family and his family adored him. His kindness, humor and zest for life left a loving impression on many people throughout his lifetime – a life punctuated by cherished family memories, laughter, and life-long friendships. A prolific noisemaker and note-taker, his home was littered with memos on latest lessons learned, memories, lists, and some very good jokes.
Born in St. Paul, MN to James Sr. and Barbara (Kuklock), Ray attended St. Adalbert’s and St. Mark’s Grade Schools, graduated from Wilson High School, and enlisted as a member of the Minnesota National Guard. He served in the Korean War and received a Purple Heart. Ray trained to be a court reporter, taking jobs in Kansas City and St. Louis before he returned home to serve as a court reporter for Judge J. Jerome Plunkett in Ramsey County for 31 years.
In 1954, Ray met the love of his life, Patricia Forster, on a blind date. Together, they raised three wonderful children and enjoyed a close-knit community of family and friends. Survived by children: Cheryl (Todd); Christel (Mark); and Timothy (Tina); grandchildren: Amanda, Kirsten, Gregory (Bri), Zachary (Alex), Nathan, and Ryan; and great-grandchildren: Beckett, Collins, and Parker and a large extended family. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia (2009), grandson, Cole (2024), parents, James Sr. and Barbara and brothers, James Jr. and Robert.
Special thanks to the staff at St. Therese of Woodbury and Woodwinds Hospital for the exceptional care they provided Ray.
Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Monday, March 10, 2025 at ST. AMBROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH, 4125 Woodbury Dr., Woodbury, with Visitation from 10:00 AM until time of Mass. Interment at Union Cemetery, 2505 Minnehaha Ave. East, Maplewood.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation, in Ray's memory, to the Dorothy Day Center of St. Paul (Catholic Charities).
