Raymond Michael Hajek Sr.

Raymond Michael Hajek Sr., age 74, of Naples, Florida and Cleveland, Ohio passed away on April 1, 2022 in Sarasota. He was born November 13, 1947 in Cleveland to the late Raymond R. and Joanne Hajek.

Ray attended Parma High School and Kent State University. He married his great love Donna Falconello on December 14, 1968. They had two sons, Raymond Michael, Jr. (“Mick”) and Josh, and enjoyed many four-legged companions over the next 53 years, including most recently Sophia, who was constantly at Ray’s side, and truly that “man’s best friend”.

Before he retired in 2019, Ray had become a legend in the packaging industry. He began in sales and marketing and later became an executive. He worked in all aspects of the industry – from paper, to protective packaging (being a pioneer in the development of the now ubiquitous “bubble wrap”), to water-activated tape for e-commerce packaging. He developed partnerships with customers that have continued well-beyond his retirement and now beyond his passing. He was a friend and mentor to many throughout his 50-year career in the industry.

Raymond is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; his son, Mick (Angela) and cherished granddaughter, Lucy, of Matthews, NC; his son Joshua (Valerie) of Naples; brother, James (Pat); and sister Kathie Vagi (Ernie, deceased). Ray was preceded in death by his sister Karen Clement (Gary).

Raymond will be laid to rest in a private ceremony in Cleveland, Ohio later this year.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Humane Society Naples.