Raymond T. Clark, 72, of Huntley, died peacefully On October 3, 2024.
He was born July 23, 1952 in Chicago. He grew up on the North side and graduated from Lane Tech. In June 1976, he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Storch, and they went on to raise their family in Palatine. He was proud of his long, accomplished career in the beverage industry which began in 7UP delivery trucks running routes and ended as a Franchise Manager with Seagram’s.
A lifelong White Sox and Bears fan, he had a competitive and athletic nature and spent many years playing various sports, particularly softball, and one of his greatest joys in life was coaching his daughter’s softball teams. His life consisted of countless hunting and fishing trips that resulted in deer in the garage, pheasants in the sink, and fish in the freezer. He enjoyed blasting and singing along to classic rock music.
Above all, Ray was a patriarch, and his greatest pride in life was taking care of his family. He was a proud conservative and patriot, and was enthusiastic about the upcoming election. He was a loyal and protective husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be missed by those he loved and who loved him. As he wrote in his memoir, “The only important things in life are: honesty, integrity, hard work, family, and never forget where you came from.” His epitaph was tattooed on his right shoulder: “Thank God I die a true American.”
He is survived by his wife, Nancy, daughters Lauren (Nick) DeGiulio, and Kelly (Matt Cizek) Clark, and by his grandchildren, Tommy, Sylvie, Rae, Johnny, Jameson, and Margot. He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Rocky.
Private family services were held, and a celebration of his life will be forthcoming.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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Our deepest condolences. Thoughts and prayers with you Nancy
Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
I'm so sorry for your loss Nancy. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Nancy, we were so sorry to hear about Ray. May the memories of Ray and the love of family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead. May he rest in eternal peace.
Nancy, we hope that even though your world is so dark right now you will soon see some light in the memories that you shared with Ray! our deepest sympathy, hugs Bff Kathy and Richie Rich
Sadden to hear of Ray’s passing. May hope sustain you and your family, May friends surround you, and love give you strength. Our deepest sympathy Bill and Lisett
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nancy, please accept our condolences, our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Our Deepest Condolences to you Nancy and your family!! Prayers!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
So sorry to hear of your loss, Nancy. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Nancy, We are so sorry for your loss. We know how much Ray loved you. He spoke so fondly of you every time we talked. It was only a few weeks ago he was talking about how excited he was for you finding your new group of girlfriends. "She has something going on every night now. She is so happy"! We pray you can find comfort with them now, during this very difficult time. We are thinking of you and praying for you. Hang in there...
Very sorry for your loss. Condolences from Adam and family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.