Raymond Walter Gondek

Raymond Walter Gondek, 80, was born December 11, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois to Walter and Mary (nee Mrowczynski) Gondek. He died Friday, August 25, 2023 at the Lutheran Home and Services, in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Mr. Gondek was a high school teacher in the Chicago Public School system for many years at the start of his working career. He later was a self-employed property owner and manager.

Raymond held a bachelor's degree in History he earned while attending St. Ambrose College where he was president of the History Club. Throughout his life, Raymond maintained strong relationships with friends he made at Weber High School in Chicago. He was known for his unwavering support, always willing to lend a helping hand or coordinate, along with his wife, Marianne, social events that brought the class together. Raymond's dedication to his friendships was a testament to his kind and generous spirit.

Sports played a significant role in Raymond's life, particularly his involvement as a soccer coach with the Arlington Heights Youth Athletic Association (AHYAA). He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and cherished cheering on his favorite team. Outside of his professional and personal pursuits, Raymond treasured spending quality time with his family. Vacations were filled with joy and laughter as they enjoyed trips to Florida, creating magical memories at Disney World, Daytona Beach and Marco Island. Annual Christmas parties were always special events, bringing family and friends together to celebrate the season.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marianne (nee Nawoj): his children Ann Marie Gondek, Patrick (Emily) Gondek, and Michelle (Jonathan) Terhune; his grandchildren, Avery Terhune, Dane and Palmer Gondek; and his brother, Gary (Patty) Gondek.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Friday, September 8, 2023 at the Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd, 1520 N. Arlington Hts. Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60004 and from 9:00 am until time of Funeral Mass at 10:00 am, Saturday, September 9, 2023 at St. Edna Catholic Church, 2525 N. Arlington Hts. Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Interment following at St. Adalbert Cemetery, Niles, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to American Cancer Society (http://www.cancer.org).