Raymond W Kornbau

Born in York, Pennsylvania, Ray graduated from York High School in 1957. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University in 1961 and later completed his Master’s degree at the University of Maryland in 1972.

Ray began his professional career at Westinghouse before dedicating many years to research and development for the U.S. Navy at the Annapolis branch of Carderock, where he worked from 1968 until his retirement in 1994. His career reflected both his sharp engineering mind and his steady commitment to service.

While working at Patuxent River, Ray discovered a love of flying and earned his commercial pilot’s license. He became an accomplished pilot of single-engine aircraft and spent many joyful years flying his V-tail Bonanza across the country. Aviation was one of his great passions.

Ray also had a deep love of travel. He and his wife Louise explored the world extensively — from Antarctica to Alaska, from Europe to New Zealand and Australia. He especially enjoyed river cruises through Europe, Greece, Turkey, and Egypt, embracing each new place with curiosity and appreciation.

In 2007, Ray moved from Maryland to Virginia to be closer to his grandchildren, who were a great source of pride and joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ida Zinn Kornbau; his stepmother, Elizabeth Work Kornbau; and his father, Raymond H. Kornbau.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Louise Kornbau; his daughter, MaryAnne Kornbau; his stepsons, Robert Myers and his wife, Sian, and William Myers and his wife, MaryEllen; and his cherished grandchildren, Robert A. Myers, Andrew O. Myers, and Ashley M. Myers.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on March 21, 2026, at Mt. Rose Cemetery in York, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice or The Salvation Army.