Raymond J. Pokorny, Sr., 87, of Huntley, died July 16, 2018 in Huntley
Raymond was a switchman on the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad for 32 years. He was a devoted family man who enjoyed hosting get-togethers for family, friends and neighbors. All were welcome. Anyone who wanted a bowl or two of his special pea soup would go home with a container.
Thanksgiving dinners, in particular, were legendary. It was the one holiday when almost all of the family -- children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren -- were able to attend.
Christmases at the Pokorny house were special events. The decorations, which featured a miniature village that grew in size and scope every year, were museum quality. He shared his love of the village with his children, giving them their own pieces as gifts over the years until they all had impressive displays of their own.
Raymond set the example of how to live in retirement. He was very involved at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Algonquin. He sang in the choir for 23 years, brought Holy Communion to those who could not attend Mass, counted weekly Mass collections and delivered Meals on Wheels. He was as beloved by his church family as he was his biological family. Church members appreciated his willingness to help, kindness and his sense of humor.
He was an avid sports fan who loved the Chicago Cubs. The 2016 World Series championship was greatly celebrated among the Pokorny family.
Raymond and his wife, Jackie, loved to travel. They made annual trips to Mexico and had numerous adventures over the years. It was rare they stayed home for too long as they went to visit family and friends all over the United States as often as possible.
Survivors include his wife of 26 years, Jacquelynne Pokorny; his children, Raymond (Anne) Pokorny, Mary (Walter) Haas, Gail (Tom) Johnson, Gary (Laurie) Pokorny; grandchildren, Christen (Don) Reese, Alex (Amy) Pokorny, Jennifer (Cameron) Witt; Renee (Kevin) Olvera, Kevin Haas, Lisa Hansmeier, Ken Hansmeier, Karla (Jeff) Schechtman; Dan (Robyn) Pokorny, Emily Pokorny and Michael Pokorny; also survived by 14 great-grandchildren.
Survived by his brothers, Joe and David Pokorny, his sister, Judith Baker. Pre-deceased by his sister, Jacqueline Miller; wife Mary Ann (Oberschulte); and his son Ron.
Visitation will be 4-8 p.m., Friday, July 20, 2018, at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, 60142. An addition visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. ,Saturday, July 21, at St. Margaret Mary, 111 S. Hubbard, Algonquin, IL 60102. Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will be held at St. Michael the Arch angel Cemetery, Palatine, IL 60067. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Margaret Mary Parish. For information, call the funeral home at (847) 515-8772 or visit www.defiorefuneral.com.
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sad that I won't get to see this once more love the family Ray deserves to IP
Our hearts are heavy, but we have so many wonderful memories to help ease the loss of our friend and neighbor. I couldn’t wait to get that phone call to bring a container for the split pea soup. The first time he called I brought my container. He said “that’s not a container!! Here’s a container!!” as the one that I brought was too small in his opinion. When he found out Mike didn’t care for split pea soup, he’d tell me to bring 2 containers, one for my split pea soup and one for chicken soup for Mike. His sense of humor brought many hours of laughter and joy. We will miss you Ray, but we are blessed with the wonderful memories of our friendship.
With our love and warm memories of a wonderful man, god bless you Ray and your family. We made a donation to St. Margaret Mary, 111 S. Hubbard, Algonquin, IL 60102. With Love from Judith Pokorny-Baker and the Evanoff Family.
RIP Ray You were a nephfew to my mom ( Lorrarine Pokirny) who kept in contact with her and the Podrazik family. I Can still taste the Christmas Soup. We always enjoyed your visits. Christine Mocarski
Sorry to here of Rays passing.
My deepest sympathies to Jackie and family. Ray was one of favorite cooks over the years. Prayers and hugs.
Difficult to believe he is gone physically but in our hearts forever. Deepest Sympathy to Jackie and their family.
Ray lived a life of Love and Giving; He was a blessing. My great sympathy to Dear Jackie and to the whole loving family. My heart goes to all of you, Lovingly, Janice.
Please accept my sympathy . Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this time.