Robert Ray, a 30-year Bartlett resident fought a hard battle with ALS. He is now reunited with his parents, cousins, two brother- in- laws and friends. He is survived by his broken-hearted wife, Heather and son, Ryan. Bob is also survived by his sister, Pat Koch and her two sons, Christopher and Kevin, sister- in -laws Holly, Heidi (Randy), niece Brigette (Eric) and nephew, Brandon. Lastly, he is survived by great nieces Savannah and Daisy.
Bob was a remarkable man in so many ways. He was a friend to so many and was always willing to help anyone who needed help. No new person he met stayed a stranger. His love for cars was amazing and his memory for knowing trivial things about cars was unbelievable.
The second part of his career was as a carpenter working on industrial and automated doors. Always a perfectionist, he built things as perfect as he could. There was nothing he couldn’t do…..well cooking never happened.
One of his biggest joys was his 1939 Chevy Sedan. He and Heather traveled the United States making new friends and going to all the car shows they could attend.
We have lost a wonderful, loyal and good man. He has so may friends that were wonderful to call him just to talk. Thank you to the special neighbors and friends who graced us with so much encouragement and help!
Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, April 15th 10:00 a.m. until time of service 11:00 a.m. at Countryside Funeral Homes and Crematory, 950 South Bartlett Rd., Bartlett. Bob wanted a true celebration with no suits and formal attire. Wear a favorite car shirt, sport team or his favorite color, yellow.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Bartlett Fire Dept. IGNITE THE COURAGE. This is a local 501(c)3 charity. It has been created and is run by the firefighters on their own time to provide resources and inspiration to the community they serve. IGNITE THE COURAGE does not just focus on one disease but serves those that are in need. More information can be found on the website ignitethecourage.org. Donations can be mailed to Ignite the Courage, 234 N Oak Avenue, Bartlett, Ill. 60103. We can’t thank the fire department enough for all the help they gave us.
Heather and Ryan appreciate all the support the Les Turner ALS foundation gave our family. We also want to thank Accent Carer Hospice for all the care and love they showed Bob. A special hug to Sylvia and Lidia for the weekly joy they brought to Bob, Heather and Ryan.
Lastly, a loving thank you to all the neighbors and members of Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett for the prayers and support for our family as we walked this difficult walk. We have been so blessed!