Raymond "Ray" Veselik, 84, of Hinsdale, died May 1, 2024.
He was born in 1939 to parents Emil and Lillian Veselik.
After working several jobs during the early years of his marriage, including teaching high school and repossessing cars, Ray found his true calling in life insurance, building a successful business for more than 40 years and earning Mutual of New York's National Man of the Year award in 1985.
When Ray wasn't working, he spent much of his time coaching youth sports or serving on the board of directors at Benet Academy.
Completely devoted to his ever-growing family, his friends and his faith, Ray was a true Southsider and ardent White Sox fan. He was a graduate of Christ the King, Quigley Seminary and Loyola University Chicago. And make no mistake, if there was fun to be had, Ray was usually right in the middle of it. Whether it be tailgating at Notre Dame football games, golfing at Ruth Lake Country Club or spending quality time with his family in Lake Geneva and Hilton Head Island, Ray (AKA "The Big Kahuna") always made sure everyone was having a good time. His impact on those who knew him is immeasurable and his legacy will last for generations.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Judy Veselik, nee LeFevour; and his siblings, Charlotte (Tom), Frank and Shirley.
He is survived by his eight children, Keith (Mary Rose), Scott (Anne), Jennifer (John) Bourjaily, Craig (Leslie Butler), Randy, David (Anne), Jill and Jamie (Mark) Walker; his 27 grandchildren: Kevin (Teresa), Meaghan (Kyle) Klump, Mary Kate (Jason) Taulman, Claire (John Richardson), Michael (Samantha Booth), Jack (Elle), Brent (Crystal), Tim (Danielle Raviele), Dan, Anna (Rob) Reed, Katie Bourjaily, Caroline Bourjaily, Janelle, Andrew, Ashley, Trey, Corey, Bella, Gabi, Sydney, Avery, Raymond, Eleanor, Thomas, Marudith, Charles Walker and Collins Walker; his 16 great-grandchildren, Henry, Charlie, Ollie, Teddy, Liam, Emma, Jack, Luke, Thomas, Andrew, Daisy, Jolene, Mack, Lola, Tabitha and Patrick; and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation is from 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside.
A funeral Mass will be said at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church, 306 W. Fourth St., Hinsdale.
Interment will follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Benet Academy, 2200 Maple Ave, Lisle, IL 60532, or to the Medical Education Scholarship at Almost Home Kids, 7S721 Route 53, Naperville, IL 60540.
