Service Details
Private family services will be held at St. Edward Catholic Church on August 14th, with Father Aaron Laskiewicz officiating.
Private interment, with military honors, will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Caledonia.
Raymond Joseph Carolan July 9, 1926 – July 30, 2024, RACINE
Raymond Joseph Carolan, age 98, passed away on July 30, 2024 at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee, with his beloved daughter Margaret and granddaughter Mary Elizabeth Carolan at his side. Raymond was born on July 9, 1926 in Racine to Irish immigrants from Dublin, the late Laurence Patrick and Florence Josephine (née Dowling) Carolan. Ray was a graduate of St. Edward Grade School, St. Catherine’s High School, and earned a business degree from Spencerian Business College (Milwaukee). Ray proudly served in World War II, as a member of the U.S. Army, in France and Germany. After completing his service and education, Ray became Treasurer at Eckmann Pressed Metal Company in 1950. He thoroughly enjoyed his 42 years at Eckmann’s, and remained a member of the organization’s 20 Year Club.
On July 18, 1953, Ray was united in marriage to Mary Josephine (née Kreitzer) Carolan at St. Rita Catholic Church. They shared a deep love and devotion for each other, as well as their five children. Ray was always a kind, guiding light for his children. His steadfast dedication to his family was Ray’s greatest achievement.
An Irishman to his core, Ray was extremely proud of his heritage. He annually attended and volunteered at Milwaukee Irish Fest. Ray loved taking long, scenic walks and bike rides along the Racine lakefront. He especially enjoyed annual travels Up North to St. Germain. Ray had a great love of classic movies and was an avid sports fan. He loved his Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. Ray was an active member of the Racine YMCA, where he met many friends, including his cherished companion, Joan E. Drasen.
Ray is survived by his children: Mary Ellyn (David) Vicksta, Patricia L. Carolan, Dr. Patrick L. (Marianne) Carolan, Maureen A. (James) Jeffry, Margaret A. Carolan. Ray was also like a father to his granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Carolan, who he raised with daughter Margaret. In addition, Ray is survived by his brother-in-law Dr. Frank V. Kreitzer, as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear extended family.
Ray was preceded in death by his brother James A. Carolan, his wife Mary J. Carolan, parents Florence and Laurence Carolan, brother John R. (Margaret) Carolan, sister Patricia M. (George) Ontko, brother Laurence E. (Betty) Carolan, sister-in-law Ann F. (Jerome) Sadowski, sister-in-law Rose K. Kreitzer, and sister-in-law Nan C. Kreitzer.
Private family services will be held at St. Edward Catholic Church on August 14th, with Father Aaron Laskiewicz officiating. Private interment, with military honors, will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Caledonia.
Special thanks to Dr. Mouhammed Rihawi, Thomas Freichels APNP, Dr. Zachary Siehoff, and Laura Sims for their exceptional care and kindness.
Ray is best known for his exceptional wit, warmth, and beautiful Irish smiling eyes. He will be deeply missed.
Ray was a gentleman and a gentle man.
Lauren and David Douglas says
My deepest sympathy, Peg and Mary. Your love and dedication to your father/grandfather is inspiring. I hope you’ll both be able to move on and live Your lives now, while keeping your gentle, kind, charming father forever in your hearts. I love you both.
Matt Sadowski says
Oh my! Just learned of Uncle Ray’s passing. My sincere love and prayers to your family. Beautiful obituary that truly summarized Ray and his loving influence.
Always remember Sunday’s in the Kreitzer living room with your dad and mine sitting on the couch in the background sipping their brandy shots and getting a tad silly.
Much love to you all.