Raymond J. Stoga

Of Arlington Heights

Raymond J. Stoga, 82, was born on May 9, 1939 in Chicago, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on September 25, 2021. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Barbara, née Cygan, children Susan (Robert Ben) Stoga, Carolyn (David) Lau, Jeff (Michelle) Stoga, and brother Leonard Stoga.

Pop Pop Ray will have an enduring presence in the hearts of his grandchildren Matthew Ben, Andrew Stoga, Ryan Stoga, Madelyn Lau, Kyle Stoga, and Carey Ben. Also surviving him are many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. Ray never met a stranger and will be remembered fondly as family by many inlaws, relatives, neighbors, coworkers, and friends of all ages and walks of life. He is preceded in death by his parents Julian (Louie) Stoga and Stephanie Stoga nee Kowalski and his mother in law and father in law Stella and Stanley Cygan.

Ray married the love of his life, Barbara, on January 4, 1964, at St. Constance Church in Chicago. They lived in the Jefferson Park neighborhood before moving to Arlington Heights where they raised their family and lived for more than 50 years. A 1963 graduate of Loyola University, Ray’s first job upon graduation was teaching at his alma mater, Weber High School and he remained an active part of the Weber alumni association until his death. He joined Sears Roebuck in their fledgling IT department in the 1960’s, working for many years at the Sears Tower in Chicago’s Loop. Retiring from Sears in 1994, he began a successful career consulting for companies in the IT arena before fully retiring to become a certified tax preparer and volunteer at the Arlington Heights Senior Center.

Community involvement mattered to Ray and he served as a coach for his children’s softball and baseball teams, as a religious ed teacher, and chaperone for his grandchildren’s field trips. He was a frequent spectator at the sports, music, and fine arts events of his niece, nephew, and grandchildren. If there was a sport, play, or exhibition, he and Barbara saw it. He was well known for his many hobbies which included car repair, model railroads, theatre, painting, and travel. He greatly enjoyed celebrating holidays and birthdays with his large extended family, all things Disney, and traveling throughout the world.

His enthusiasm for life will be remembered by all who met him. In honor of his life, the family asks you to enjoy a Southern Comfort Manhattan at your next meal. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Night Ministry or The Mercy Home For Boys & Girls, causes close to his heart.

Visitation Wednesday, September 29, 2021 from 4 PM until 8 PM at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Funeral Mass 10:00 AM, Thursday, September 30, 2021 at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church, 411 N. Wheeling Road, Prospect Heights, IL. Interment All Saints Cemetery.

Funeral Information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFH.com or (847) 253-0168.