Raymond K. Dite

1927 - 2024

Raymond K. Dite
Born: August 8, 1927 in Chicago, IL
Died: June 12, 2024 in Morris, IL
Raymond K. "Ray" Dite, a cherished family man, respected colleague, and honored veteran, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on June 12, 2024, at the age of 96 in Morris, Illinois. Born on August 8, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Louis and Mildred (Swartz) Dite.
Ray was a devoted husband to Lila (Horrie), whom he married on June 22, 1957. Their enduring partnership was filled with mutual respect and affection, and together they raised a beautiful family. He was a proud father to his daughters Kathy (Gary) Kerins and Lisa Dite; and sons Brad (Kerry) Dite, and Brent (Lori) Dite. Ray was also a doting grandfather to Aaron Seabert, Kyle (Alicia) Dite, Joshua (Candice) Henderson, Adam (Katherine) Henderson, Jessica (Matthew) McDaniel, Samantha Dite, Mitchell Dite, Heather Dite, and Branden Dite, along with 9 great grandchildren whose lives he touched with wisdom and warmth. He is survived by his loving sister Lorraine Hanson, along with several nieces and nephews. Ray was predeceased by his parents and his three sisters and three brothers.
Ray's commitment to his country was evident through his service in the US Army during World War II, where he served in the Pacific Theater of Operations from 1945 to 1947. His experiences during the war shaped his perspective on life and instilled in him a sense of duty and resilience.
Following his military service, Ray embarked on a successful career with Douglas Equipment, where he rose to the position of Executive Vice President over a span of 25 years. After a distinguished career, Ray found a passion for teaching and went on to share his knowledge as an instructor for the Automotive Mechanics Class at the Grundy Area Vocational Center, retiring in 2001.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ray was an active member of his community. He was a devout member of the First United Methodist Church in Morris, where he found spiritual solace and fellowship. His service continued as a member of the American Legion Post #294, where he connected with fellow veterans and contributed to various community initiatives.
A visitation for Ray will be held on Monday June 17th, 2024 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at U.C. Davis Callahan Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be at 1:00 pm. He will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Morris following the service.
Memorials may be made in Ray's name to Lightways Hospice in Joliet or to First United Methodist Church in Morris.
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.