Chicago, Illinois
Raymond E. Niemi, 75, of 19137 Briar Drive, Bloomington, IL, died on May 26, 2007, at his residence. He will be buried in a graveside service at Fairview Cemetery, Fairview, Illinois. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to World Hunger Fund, c/o St. John's Lutheran Church, 1617 Emerson St....
Read MoreTo Katherine and Family,
Our loving thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I believe character traits are learned. Although I never met Mr. Niemi, his influence on our lives is living through the good characters of Katherine and her children. I hope your loving memories will soon replace your grief.
Our condolences, Sydney and Keith Schuler
Sydney Schuler
June 03, 2007 | Lemont, IL
Although I did not know Mr. Niemi very well firsthand, I always felt very close to him. His daughter Katie and I met in college and have stayed friends for all these years. Through her loving and lovely and stories about her dad, I came to know a kind and gentle man who was wise and totally devoted to his family. I am so very sorry for Katie and her family; I know her dad will be terribly missed. He was truly the fabric of the family.
Anne Craig
June 02, 2007 | Springfield, IL
I would like to say that Mr. Niemi made a huge impression in my life because he tought me in 7th and 8th grade at Central Junior High in Zion, IL. in the late fiftys.
He also tought my three children at Jack Benny in Waukegan,IL.
I can honestly say he was my favorite teacher.
Don Pincombe
May 31, 2007 | Lake Villa, IL
Dear Joyce, Katharine and family-
I am so sad about Ray's passing. I can still see him in his classroom at Jack Benny Jr. High--looking fierce but laughing inside. Always remember that when you love someone, they do not die. I am glad it was so peaceful at the end. Blessings to you.
Barbara DuRocher
May 31, 2007 | Warrenville, IL
Dear Joyce and all~
I'm so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Ray, especially during Katharine's and my college years. I know how much he means to all his family, and what great memories you will all cherish. He was a one-of-a-kind person!
Many blessings to you all and much love,
Bonnie
Bonnie Biehl Cameron
May 30, 2007 | Grants Pass, OR
My sincere sympathy to the Niemi family. Mr. Niemi was my Industrial Arts teacher at Jack Benny Jr.HS. I attended there 69-70. Student safety was his major concern. He was all business. I was an average at best industrial arts student but he certainly taught me a lot.
Pete Gardner
May 29, 2007 | Mukwonago, WI
Joyce and Family,
May the sympathy of friends and the precious memory of Ray help to comfort you at this time.
May God be with you in this time of sorrow, comforting you and sending you warm reminders of His love.
Joyce, you and I were at Glen Flora School at the same time a couple of years ago.
Norma & Bob Mjelde
May 28, 2007 | Gurnee,, IL
I'm very sorry for your loss-I was a student at Jack Benny Jr High (the first full graduating class in 1962) I remember Mr. Niemi as a great teacher and a genuine nice guy...Although I wasn't too good in shop class (you should have seen the goofy bowling pin lamp I brought home)
Anyway my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Greg Kazian
Greg Kazian
May 28, 2007 | Kenosha, WI
