Raymond Martin Nowakowski

Born on March 31, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Raymond lived a life defined by honor, service, and devotion to his family and country. His unwavering commitment to duty and his quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Raymond proudly served in the United States Navy for 24 years, retiring in 1979 as a Command Master Chief Constructionman (CUCM). During his distinguished military career, he completed three tours in Vietnam with the Navy Construction Battalions (Seabees), where he demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, and dedication while supporting critical construction and engineering missions in a combat environment. During his service in Vietnam, Raymond was awarded a Bronze Star with Valor for gallantry in the line of duty, a testament to his bravery and sacrifice in service to his country. His career reflected the Seabees’ enduring motto, “We Build, We Fight,” and earned the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him.

One of the greatest blessings of Raymond’s Navy career came while he was stationed in Kenitra, Morocco, where he met the love of his life, Arlette. Their chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on love, devotion, and shared adventure. Together, they built a family that remained the center of Raymond’s life and the source of his greatest pride.

Following his retirement from the Navy, Raymond continued his lifelong commitment to public service by joining the United States Department of State as an Administrative Officer. His diplomatic career spanned nearly two decades and took him and his family around the world, serving in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, Istanbul, Turkey, and numerous other overseas assignments. Throughout his career with the Department of State, he provided steadfast leadership and support to American diplomatic missions, continuing his lifelong dedication to serving his country.

Despite a career that took him across the globe, Raymond’s greatest accomplishment was the family he and Arlette built together. He is preceded by his beloved wife, Arlette and survived by his loving son Richard and his wife, Lisa; his loving son Romain and his wife, RuthAnn; and his loving son Roger and his wife, Christie; his dear brother, George, and George’s wife, Margaret. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Emma, Roger Jr., Kathryn, Stephanie, Nick, Rexton, Natalie, and Natasha; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Liam and Ronin. He found immense joy in watching his family grow and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

Raymond will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, respected leader, loyal friend, and patriot whose life was marked by courage, humility, and unwavering integrity. Whether serving on the front lines in Vietnam, supporting America’s diplomatic missions abroad, or sharing stories and laughter with his family, he exemplified selfless service and quiet strength.

His family takes comfort in knowing that his life was one of purpose, sacrifice, and love. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the Sailors and Seabees he mentored, and the colleagues who had the privilege of serving beside him. Though he will be deeply missed, his example will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial celebrating Raymond’s life will be held at Murphy Funeral Homes (4510 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA 22203) on Saturday September 19th, 2026 between 1pm and 5pm. All are welcome.

Fair winds and following seas, Command Master Chief. Your watch is complete.