CANFIELD - Raymond "Ray" Kucalaba, 76, passed away Tuesday afternoon, June 4, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Raymond was born March 22, 1948, in Ellwangen, Germany, a son of Ukrainian immigrants, the late Wasyl and Anna Kavesky Kucalaba and immigrated to the United States as a child.

Ray was a proud 1966 graduate of Chaney High School. He pursued higher education at The Ohio State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in psychology. His academic journey continued at Youngstown State University, culminating in a master's degree in business administration.

Dedicated and hardworking, Ray spent over 30 years at General Motors Lordstown in the paint department before enjoying a well-deserved retirement.

Outside of his professional life, Ray found joy and fulfillment working on his farm, raising cattle, and harvesting corn. His hobbies were diverse and reflected his curious spirit: he enjoyed tinkering with electronics, capturing moments through photography, nurturing his garden, and smoking various meats. Ray was also a passionate supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes and a dedicated viewer of Fox News. Above all, Ray treasured the time he spent with his family, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Ray is survived by his five children, Jean (Nick) Kuper, Mark (Stacie) Kucalaba, Joann Blakeman, Luke (Meghan) Kucalaba, and June Kucalaba; his nine grandchildren, Nate, Lauren, Sarah, Elisa, Lexi, Drew, Emma, Jacob, and Madeline; his sister, Mary Ann (Vince) Huwig, and many extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Ray will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. His kind heart, vibrant spirit, and the warmth he brought to those around him will be remembered always.

His wife of 51 years, Linda Silverthorne Kucalaba, whom he married November 14, 1970, passed away January 31, 2022. A brother, Michael Kusalaba also preceded Ray in death.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where a celebration of life service will be held at 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers Ray's family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation via their website https://glioblastomafoundation.org/get-involved/donate . When prompted to "share the news of the donation" please notify Ray Kucalaba via rkucalaba@gmail.com.