I was just thinking about Ray the other day.

I am certain that his spirit is watching over us and helping us steering goodness our way.

Uncle Ray brought out the best side of my father and was the most generous man I’ve met. However on top of sharing things he loved, he was a great story teller and always shared amazing stories. He brought out the inner-child in my dad and nothing was like seeing the two of them interact. I’m so blessed to have spent the limited time I had around Uncle Ray. Clearly my dad had great taste in life-long friends.

Please accept my condolences Cheryl , Ava Marie, immediate family and friends. I am Eric Michener, a friend of Steve Carte's. Ray  touched my life through several camping , island and nights out experiences.  His self confidence and personality rubbed off on me permanently, and has made me a better person. He will always be remembered in the Great State of Ohio and know that you are all in my prayers.

By the way I'm 62 yrs old, we went back a ways since we have hung out.

I am so sorry for your loss Cheryl and Ava.  I really didn’t know Ray that well  but I knew of him through your Mom.
He was a very strong person and he fought a hard battle these last few  years.
I remembered I used to think he looked like Tom Jones and would tell him that when I first knew him.
No words can really express what you’re are going through right now.  But know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love Aunt Lucy❤️

Kathy and I are so upset hearing about Ray’s passing.   All our prayers to the entire family.  

Growing up with Danny meant having Ray as our big brother!  He would mess with us, have fun with us, protect us and always, like his little brother Danny, make us laugh.  

Ray was a force of nature.   He will be missed but never forgotten.   I’m so glad Ray is with his Dad and Danny now.  I’m sure they are having just an awesome reunion on the other side. 

Love you all
Tom and Kathy ONeill

Dear Cheryl, Ava and family,
We are sorry to hear of Rays passing.  
He was always such a pleasure to visit with.
Always a smile for everyone.  He was such a fighter and handled his situation with much grace and thankfulness.  
He will be missed by many, and may God bless you all during the days ahead with strength and comfort.  We love you all and we are so  sorry we won’t be there for his funeral we will visit with you all in a couple months.  Love you Auntie Patty, Ron and Aunt Nip and Gary 🥰

Growing up Ray was like a second father to me. Ava and I have been best friends since we were 5, and a lot  of my favorite childhood memories involved Ray. He was always there cheering me on at dance competitions, putting a smile on my face, scaring me with a loud and unexpected sound, or giving ava and I a powerful speech on something he was passionate about. He never failed to be involved in my life, make me laugh and feel important. He was ALWAYS the funniest guy in the room. The way he made my dad laugh is something I will cherish forever. I will miss making more memories with him, but I am undoubtedly grateful that I have so many memories that I can cherish for the rest of my life. Ray will always be remembered in my heart ❤️ rest in peace

So sad to hear of Rays passing. Can’t imagine the huge space that he has left in your lives, he sure filled it when he was here. Such a special guy.  Thinking of you  Cheryl, Ava, Andrea, Michelle, Donerae  and everyone who he loved and was so loved by. Our hearts and thoughts are with you during this sad and difficult time. Hugs and love
Don and Carolyn Elkington

I met Ray and Cheryl under trying circumstances which where none of his nor of my doings.

We discussed together respectfully, and I noticed then something that I found was an exceptional trait of character in Ray. This was Ray’s positive outlook on life and his insight for possible opportunities. 

His passion to succeed, his energy, his enthusiasm to carry on , and his great affection for his customers and everyone with whom he collaborates,  is a strength and an example for all of us.

His magnetism was a grace, a gift to everyone he touched.

Ray made you feel good , made you feel special. Most of all, I know for certain that he was utterly sincere and pure.

To put it in plain terms, Ray’s was a man full of love.

 I truly believe that the love that we have and express to others, is what makes our soul eternal.

See you later my friend.

Denis Malaket 
For all of us at Dynasty Spas

I would be remiss if I didn’t share a memory with you about Ray.

Ray and I went to Holy Family together. All through grade school, we were often in the same classroom.  On one occasion, I can clearly remember him roughhousing in the back of the classroom with one of his friends, when Sr. Irene scolded him for his behavior by exclaiming, “Raymond, get back to your seat!”  Ray, with his cheeks flushed and his hair tousled on top of his head, looked like a deer in the headlights. He had that innocent look on his face as if he knew nothing of what he had done wrong and reluctantly sat back in his chair.

I hadn’t seen Ray for many years until I ran into him at the Strongsville Café many years later while he was with his friend who was another former classmate of ours.  Ray was so warm and friendly. He genuinely was happy to see me and vice versa. We played darts and shot pool well into the night until the house lights came on an it was time to go our separate ways. He insisted on walking me out to my car. Between the short walk from the bar to my car, we got onto the subject of my little brother, who had drowned just a few short years earlier and the pain was still so very raw. I remember breaking down and crying. Ray gave me one of his huge teddy bear hugs and told me to look up at the stars and assured me my brother was still with me. I will never forget that little blip in time when he gave me the comfort I so desperately needed, and I carry that sweet act of kindness with me to this day.

Ray’s personality was larger than life, yet his heart even bigger. Maybe, just maybe, he used up every inch of kindness in that big old heart of his that there was just no more room left.  So, when I look up at the stars on a clear, dark night, I will think of my old friend and how special he was to me, and that his memory still shines bright in the heavens above.

I could not have described him better(obit).  I am a fellow graduate "82 of Padua Franciscan High School where I had the pleasure to experience the fun, humor and most memorable laugh.  I had the pleasure of working at The Place with him and his family in North Royalton. I am a better man for having known Ray.  

You will definitely be missed.  

To his family:  May God keep you that much closer during this time.  May his many great memories provide you the comfort during this trying sad time.  God Bless.  
Kenny Ortiz

Raymond was such a special person. His voice, laugh, humor and his intense will to love people will be missed so much. He had such a big presence. I was lucky enough to spend this past Christmas with him. We spent the later night singing kareoke! I will always keep this memory close to my heart. At one point, we loved the same song and starting belting out singing. It was “Sara Smile” by Daryl Hall and John Oates. He was surprised I knew every word and it was just such a good memory that will forever be locked in my heart. There’s a part of the song where it says “it’s you and me forever” and I know he will forever be with us, looking down and watching over us all. Be in peace. I love you Ray.

I have a very specific memory of Ray that I feel depicts who he was as a whole. When I was very young, I was troubled. Ray, without hesitation, stepped in to try to find the root of why I was acting out in a manor not consistent with who I was as a person. Instead of writing me off as a kid that not only was not his problem but was also not his responsibility, he came to me out of love and concern like I was his own. At the time, I hadn’t realized what a big deal that was. Being in my teens, I just hadn’t experienced the world enough to know just how rare and special Ray was to go out of his way to try to put me back on the right path. Not because it would’ve benefited him in some way or even just one of those things you do because you know it’s right if you want to or not. It was completely out of a genuinely pure love that he wanted to help me get to where he knew I should be going. That is not something you find in this world anymore. People like Ray set a precedent for the people who surrounded him, and for all of those who come after. He was a generational centerpiece. One where you draw from the past to find out how he became who he was, and one where you look to the future by using him as a standard for all of the family to come. He will be missed, dearly.

Ray was an amazing man and he will be so deeply missed. I have so many great memories with Ray, Cheryl, and Ava. They introduced me to glamping, which now I can NEVER go back to regular camping. One time we went ATVing and Ray had to lend me one of his XXL helmets for my big, round head at the age 10. 
Whether it was camping, boating, dance competitions, you name it, Ray was always a joy to be around. His humor and loving nature made everyone love him. 
I'm sending so much love to Ava, Cheryl and their family. Rest in peace Mr. Ray <3

Ray will be forever missed but I’m so grateful that we will meet again in Heaven.

Over the years, Ray and I spent so much time together talking about life’s lessons and how much we can learn more if we put ourselves out there to experience life and new things.

He was a brilliant man when it came to his business and quite frankly,  in life’s challenges and choices.  

So very grateful I have had the privilege of his presence.  Love you forever Ray.

RIP Ray.  Say hello to the other class of 82 Bruin brothers who have gone before.

Mark Margevicius

Rest in peace cuz. Will never forget our childhood, or working together for your dad. Great times. You are missed by all that knew you.

Ray will be missed immensely, he always knew how to make you laugh. I have so many great memories with Ray.

I love my brother.   I loved taking care of him… and I would tell him what to eat and what not to eat.   Then he would say “ stop loving me so much”.

Ray made being a mother-in-law easy. He was giving, loving, and brave and also funny I have so many memories. My very favorite was movie time at the theater. Ray loved movies, and we loved sharing time with him. We got the largest box of popcorn, drinks, and sweets. We wolfed down the popcorn and then before the movie started, he would smile, and make sure we got another tub of popcorn before the movie. I will miss you, Ray, but you will always be in my heart ❤️  Rest in peace.

My Uncle Ray meant so much to me. From a young age, he did everything he could to instill confidence in me in many ways. He pushed me through multiple of my fears and each time I spent time with him, I felt like I was a stronger person than I was before. Whether it was driving an electric scooter or a boat, or just reminding me of my own ability, he always wanted to make me a better and stronger person and I am forever grateful. He pushed me, but was always gentle and loving. Even in little things, he believed in me when I didn’t and the confidence he gave me will stay with me forever. I admire everything about who he was. His sense of humor and silliness, willingness to help and support others, and his kindness and love for his family, and his positive attitude through adversity. I value all of the memories we shared together. We binged watched the Star Wars saga together, went on countless boat rides, had deep talks about life, laughed and joked about ridiculousness, talked about sports and much more. He’s had a tremendous impact on my life and I love him. I will miss him greatly, but look forward to our next boat ride on the biggest lake Heaven has. I love you Uncle Ray.

Words cannot express how sad we all are to hear about Ray’s passing. Cheryl and Ava we love you and you are in our thoughts and prayers always. We have so many fond memories of Ray it’s hard to pinpoint our favorite. From Ray’s hilarious outfits on 4th of July, boating on Lake Mead, bbqs at the Klubnik house (Palm tree catching on fire), Ray buying Cheryl (or himself) the video arcade for Christmas, the funny jokes he always had and that infectious smile… Ray was surely one of the greatest human beings we have ever met. Ray made everyone around him feel special and we feel so lucky to have known him. The love Ray had for his girls, Cheryl and Ava was truly inspiring. Ray will be very missed by all that knew him. We love you Klubnik family. Thank you for all the wonderful memories from the good old days. Please let us know if you need anything, we are always here for you. 
Love,
The Bendels
Steve, Andrea, McKenzie, Riley & Caleb

You all are in my thoughts and prayers I know what you are going through as I have just lost my father on 1-5-2025 I remember playing football on the beach in Port Clinton with Ray as a child I remember hitting him and falling flat on my back it was like hitting a brick wall but I got back up and continued to play that is one summer I’ll never forget once again you all are in my thoughts and prayers god bless

Cheryl and Ava and the Klubnik family, our deepest condolences from the Vorell family.

The term larger than Life gets thrown around a lot, but with Ray that could not have been more true. He was always at the center of attention and he was kind to everybody. Just a fun guy to be around. 

Our prayers are with you in this difficult time. 

Sincerely, Dan, Amber and Nicole Vorell.

This was on the Ferry coming back from Put in Bay in Ohio. I remember Ray was trying to hide from Ava and I behind a wall and we ran up to him and gave him the biggest hug. It made him smile so bright! ☀️

Silly pictures in Death Valley🧡💜🤍

Ava and Mackenzies sophomore year parents weekend  in Clemson, September 2023.

Cheryl
Bonnie and I are so sorry to hear this.  We know the last several years were filled with ups and downs for Ray.

We have so many memories of great times whenever we were in Copley for BSI.  One particular night in Las Vegas during the earthquake----- tidy whiteness and all running down the hall, or the cab rides and parties/trips/events with BSI.

Other than texts the last time we saw him was at Missy's wedding here in cheesecake.  Glad we were able to talk to him at least there.

He will be greatly missed....our thoughts are always with you and Ava as well as all of our BSI extended family.

With huge condolences, 

Bonnie & Bob Adams

one of my fondest memories of uncle ray was going on the boat with him. his care for all of us making sure we are safe, but still throwing us off the tube and having fun. speaks to the kind of person he is. the way he would always make sure i was ok and give me any sort of life advice is something i’ll never forget. i love you guys so much❤️❤️❤️

Ray was such an amazing man. He always knew how to light up a room and make you smile. Im so grateful for the time I was able to spend with him ❤️

Laughing and telling stories all night.  So many fantastic and cherished memories with you both, we will always remember.    
Jay & Arvilla

So many “Good Times’….here’s to you Ray.  Miss you buddy.

I feel so grateful to have known Ray. He truly was the most incredible man & his love for his family was so loud. He was unbelievably generous & was always around for a good laugh. And I am eternally grateful for how his loved shaped one of my best-friends, Ava. His light shines in her in every way. This video of Ray watching Ava’s senior solo from the wings backstage at one of our dance competitions will always be one of my favorite memories of him. I’ll hold his memory close to my heart for the rest of my life… may he rest in peace🕊️

Ray lit up every room he stepped into. He put a smile on everyone’s face. He was everything a father should be and more. Kind, caring, supportive, loving, selfless, the list goes on. He loved his family unconditionally and it truly showed everytime I saw him. I will never forget my trip to Vegas when Ava, Cheryl, Ray and I played Mexican train for hours. He made us laugh all night. I never thought that would be the last time I saw him. He is a hero and will always be an amazing man. I am sending all my love and praying for the entire Klubnik family in this unbelievably hard time. I wish I could be there to give you all the biggest hug. I love you all so much ❤️

Andrea and myself always had a great Time with Ray and Cheryl we spent a lot of time riding our motorcycles and trips in the motor home thanks Ray for all the great times and all the laughs RIP Ray you will be missed

I joined the Klubnik clan when I started dating and eventually marrying Ray’s sister Andrea.  My first Christmas with the family was an experience like no other.  Ray, Danny and Brett, Michelle’s husband, conspired to give Mr K some gag gifts; the first was a pair of shoes, and the second was a pair of pants.  One shoe looked normal and the other had a 3” sole.  The pants matched the shoes with one leg 3” shorter.  I was unaware that Mr. K had recently undergone a second hip surgery on the same hip that left him with one leg shorter than the other.  Immediately upon opening the gifts he started laughing so hard it quickly turned into tears and he cried for what seemed an eternity, but was likely only few minutes.  I initially thought these people were crazy and worried about what I had gotten myself into.  I shortly came to appreciate the deep love they shared for each other.
I’ll always remember our Coast Spas trip to Tahiti.  It was a beautiful cruise around the islands with scuba diving excursions, parties buy the pool and the fart machine.  Ray brought a fart machine and it was hilarious.  He put a dollar bill under a chair leg at the table across the aisle and when someone bent over to grab the buck, ppffffhhht.  Most were so embarrassed they snapped to attention and fled the scene.  One guys wife called her husband a pig as she beat him with her purse.  Eventually someone took the dollar and Ray created a new game.  I’ll never forget those people with their noses pressed to the gap in the elevator door who couldn’t wait to get out at the next floor because they thought Ray was shitting himself.
Thank you for the love, laughs, and memories.  I will miss you Brother.

Ray is my brother, and so much more.  We grew up together, laughing until our sides ached.  We worked together for twenty years.  Ray was the sales manager, showroom and show designer, the idea man with new products/promotions, and the ultimate sales professional.  He would come up with show booth designs that were over the top!  We would not have the business we have today without Ray’s decades of passionate participation. 

Much more of a risk taker than me, he headed west and moved 2100 miles away.   He used to joke that it was just the right distance…not too close but not too far!  In Nevada, he thrived in the weather, the action of Las Vegas, the clean newer communities, boating on Lake Mead, exploring the western states, and the autonomy of creating a business and life he loved living.  It was challenging yet he was a master of figuring out a way to make things work.  

Even after Ray moved, we shared business ideas, vendors, and had each other to talk-out opportunities and problems.   We always knew we had each other’s back.   We found out Ray had a heart issue when our youngest brother, Danny, died 25 years ago.  Ray had the same condition.  His life expectancy was five years.  Good thing they never told him, because Ray became a what his doctor called a “double-double”; more than doubling his life expectancy twice!    He had a vision of the future and he was living into it!   
Ray loved passionately, gave generously, mentored constantly, lived big, and valued his business and personal relationships.  No one could create fun like Ray.   THE best story teller ever!  The room lit up when Ray arrived.  It wasn’t just with his friends and family.  Clients still come into The Place in Medina and ask about Ray,  even though they did business with him over two decades ago! That’s because it was easy to become his friend.  

Ray, I am so grateful to have shared my life with you.  Thinking of you will always make me smile and feel loved.  Keep the light on for me!

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Ray.
You have been part of our family since you were a child.

We are thinking of all of you,
La Petite Harbour Association

I wouldn't be where I am or who I am right now in life without Ray taking a chance on a 20yr old kid, 24yrs ago to work with him in Medina, Ohio. He always treated me like a brother and I'll always admire him for that. He always told me what/how I needed to hear something. It was one of many special gifts I appreciated.  Words can't express my gratitude towards him, but knowing there is so much of him inside me personally/professionally brings me joy. He isn't gone, he's just continuing thru all of us. 

**This photo is an example of who Ray was. It was taken 55min before I had to be on a plane home from Las Vegas in Lake Mead. "Ray, I got a plane to catch." We have time, he said. Me freaking out, him calm and smiling. That's how I'll remember him, smiling and calm. Everything works out, and he's right We always have time.

Our kids were best friends from the moment they met living next door in Henderson. Our friendship followed. You will forever be missed Ray. Memories of Bob Seger in the garage, and antics near and far. Tabasco bottles and white pants. You always made others around you laugh and feel like they were seen.  It is comforting to know that you are watching over your family from above. Much love. Eddie, Kathy and Seth.

Ray was the kind of person that made you feel so important and loved. He made you feel special just by loving you. It was an honor to know him.

Birthday parties, 4th of July get togethers. Road trips, Halloween. We experienced it all and are so grateful for these memories we had with you!

OBITUARY

Raymond Mathew Klubnik

May 16, 1964 – February 12, 2025

Palm Southwest Mortuary

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