PEORIA - Raymond Louis Picl Jr., age 57, of Peoria passed away Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center.
Ray was born on Nov. 8, 1958, in Peoria to Raymond Louis and Louise (Wuthrich) Picl Sr.
He is survived by his fiancee, Vicky Gray, and her son, Devin Gray, of Peoria; parents, Raymond Louis Picl Sr. and Louise Picl of Peoria Heights; two sisters, Susan (Jerry) DuBois of Morton and Sande (Russ) Peters of Dubuque, Iowa; one brother, Rick (Melanie) Picl of Peoria Heights; nephew, Tony DuBois; and three nieces, Jami DuBois, Mallory Picl and Jessica Peters.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
Ray graduated from Peoria Heights High School and Bradley University, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He currently worked at Illinois Mutual Life Insurance Company and had previously worked at Amoco Oil Company for 10 years, Caterpillar Inc. for 10 years and Malt-O-Meal Company for 14 years.
His passions included genealogy, Disney, Facebook and all things German. He loved to vacation in Longville, Minn., and spent many summer days cruising Long Lake on his pontoon boat with his family.
Ray never knew a stranger; when you met Ray, you became his friend. He will be remembered for his humor and his loving heart. Ray was a "gentle giant."
He was a member of Peoria Heights Congregational Church and taught Sunday school at Bartonville Christian Church.
He was a member of many Masonic organizations, including Grandview Lodge 1112, Past Master Tremont Lodge No. 462 AF&AM, Pekin Chapter No. 25 RAM, Pekin Council R&SM, Eminent Past Commander Blaney Commander No. 5 KT, Past Grand Senior Warden Grand Commandery of Illinois KT, Valley of Peoria AASR, Past Sovereign Prince Peoria Council Princes of Jerusalem, St. Helena Conclave Red Cross of Constantine, Mohammad Shrine Temple and the Dramads, Peoria Court Royal Order of Jesters, Past Master of Illini Council No. 243 AMD, Grand College of Rites and holder of the Grand Cross, Knights Occidental, Illinois College SRICF and Mystic Tie Chapter Order of Eastern Star.
It was Ray's wish to be cremated. Visitation will be held today, Feb. 5, 2016, from 4 to 8 p.m., followed by Masonic services at 8 p.m., at Peoria Heights Congregational Church. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at the church, with visitation beginning one hour before.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Devin Gray's Educational Fund.
Raymond's online memorial website may be viewed at www.cumerford.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home - Peoria.
Mike & Pam Hinds
January 29, 2019
I miss my friend and Brother. Ray was fun to be around and could make me laugh at the funny things he would say. I enjoyed being in the many Scottish Rite degrees with Ray. In one degree Ray played a Rabbi and me a Catholic Priest. Just think about that !!!! ha ha. Rest in PEACE dear friend and Brother.
Vicky Gray
March 14, 2016
I love and miss you every minute of every day. We will be together again.
March 2, 2016
A month after his passing, I reflect daily on both the amount of living my cousin got done before his untimely demise and the number of lives he touched with his humor, goodwill, and spirit. I remain in awe of him on both scores. Rest in peace, Ray - we'll meet again.
The Hillyer families and The Stimeling families
February 7, 2016
Sincere sympathy, words can not begin to describe the sadness we feel for all of you at this sad time.
Bob and Judy Carruthers
February 7, 2016
Ray, Lou, and the Picl Family,
We were sorry to learn of the passing of
Ray Jr. Our sincere and deepest sympathies are extended to all members of
your family.
Bob and Judy Carruthers
Dean Mulder
February 6, 2016
Ray was one of the top 5 greatest men I have ever met, and I will never forget him and will miss him dearly. He always had a funny story or unique perspective to share, and an amazing mind that never rested. I learned early on in our friendship to be sure to come to him with "only the facts" and be ready for a strong and spirited debate. I knew and worked with him for 14 of my 25 years while working for Malt-o-Meal, but he was the kind of guy that made you feel like you knew him for a lifetime. I consider myself truly blessed for knowing him, and look forward to having another slice of pizza again with him someday. I know first hand we was incredibly loved by his family when I attended his surprise 50th birthday party at a local bar in downtown Minneapolis one night. I can't ever recall being around a more caring / jovial group of people, and the love and happiness that filled the room that night I will remember forever. God's speed Ray Picl! I will think of you often and am so very grateful for all the great times and wisdom you have given me over the years. Rest in peace :(
Kathe Jones
February 5, 2016
I will always remember the kindness of Ray. He shared so many photos of my parents from "back in the day" on Facebook as well as keeping in touch with all of his friends and family. I know you will be missed greatly, Ray, and that you were loved deeply. Rest forever in the arms of the angels!
Debbie Chappell-Bolds
February 5, 2016
So very sorry to hear about Ray Jr. May all family and friends remember the wonderful times that you had with him.
Tom & Mary Kay Duncan
February 5, 2016
We are so very, very sorry you and your family must go through such a sad time.
February 5, 2016
Dear Picl Family,
So very sorry for your loss of your Beloved Ray Jr.He is now with our Heavenly Father in Heaven. With Deepest Sympathy,
Regards Eric J. Grimm.
Mark and Pam (Schlipf) Reinhold
February 5, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers to the Picl family.
Diane Lockhart
February 5, 2016
I only had the priviledge to meet Ray at the welcome home for the Honor Flight last year in Peoria.
I was the guardian for his father Ray Sr.
He was such a nice man and,he was loved very much by his family.
Stacy Harper
February 5, 2016
I didn't know Ray very well only met him on Facebook..He got me started in the poked you game.My thoughts and prayers to his family....Rest In Peace my friend...
Dale Stepanek
February 4, 2016
I never new you Ray but felt like I did. See you on the other side my friend.
Joan (Hacker) Coleman
February 4, 2016
So sorry to hear this. My heartfelt prayers are with you all.
Tina Cox Shrier Hutson
February 4, 2016
My prayers and thoughts are with Ms Vicky, Devin,and all the Picl family. I never knew anyone that was as awesome as Ray. He cherished and celebrated everything about life. Heaven must have needed another shining star. May you all find some comfort in knowing just how much Ray was loved. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kirk Moe
February 4, 2016
To The Picl Clan:
I will never forget that last time I saw Ray. It was two summers ago at Deer Trail Resort in Longville, MN. I stopped by to say good bye and Ray was getting ready to take Vicky and her son to the airport. There was definitely Love in his eye for Vicky. Every time he looked at her. I knew he had found the one, the real one Love of his life. I could see it in his eyes. One thing about Ray, he loved everyone. I'll keep that moment for the rest of my life. There were so many memorable times with Ray. I'll miss him greatly. He was one of a kind. God Bless.
Tracey Brownell
February 4, 2016
Sande and Rick,
So sorry to hear of Ray's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Tracey (Pankey) Brownell
Kim Lang
February 4, 2016
Such a wonderful, wonderful man. He was so fortunate to have lived a beautiful life and he was blessed to rejoin his love Vicky for the last 2 years. He was so excited to make it back home to Illinois...but we sure did miss him in MN. No matter where Ray went the sun shone brighter, and he always had a smile to share. I will miss him dearly. My condolences to all of his family and friends.
February 4, 2016
I
Scott and Chris Crandall
February 4, 2016
Well. Be truly missed by so many. For the family and friends. For a man who has touched so many. Leaving great lessons and wisdom and love. Along his way. Rest peacefully that his positive mark . Has been left behind. For all to rejoice in. For he enjoyed life and wants all to enjoy. To the fullest as he . May he enjoy music, boat rides and. Be happy watching down on those he loves . For Ray will always live through us . R.I.P my brother Daryl. And we will enjoy a fire and star's. Again someday. God's blessings to the Ray and his family. Peace
Scott and Chris Crandall
February 4, 2016
Well. Be truly missed by so many. For the family and friends. For a man who has touched so many. Leaving great lessons and wisdom and love. Along his way. Rest peacefully that his positive mark . Has been left behind. For all to rejoice in. For he enjoyed life and wants all to enjoy. To the fullest as he . May he enjoy music, boat rides and. Be happy watching down on those he loves . For Ray will always live through us . R.I.P my brother Daryl. And we will enjoy a fire and star's. Again someday. God's blessings to the Ray and his family. Peace
Kevin Bronson
February 4, 2016
Sending condolences to Ray and his family. Miss you, my friend
Steve Wright
February 4, 2016
So very sorry for your loss. Ray was a good friend and loved life to its fullest. He will be dearly missed. Your family will be in our prayers.
Megan Paul
February 4, 2016
I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Ray. He was a great man, kind, helpful, fun, smart, and loved by so many. I'm glad I got to be part of his life and he will always remain in my heart. Longville won't be the same without him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
I'll miss you Ray-Ray!
Love, Megan (Fellegy) Paul
Kim Blankenship-Johnson
February 4, 2016
I am so sad to hear this. Ray was such a great guy! My heart goes out to the entire family. Peace be with you all.
Janet Swendsen Cole
February 4, 2016
Our words can't express our sorrow. You will be forever loved and never forgotten. We will miss the meetings at the Hofbrau. Save me a place at the table right next to you! Love you brother!
Sherri Hymbaugh Coake
February 4, 2016
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Rays family and dear friends during this most heart breaking time.
Gale and Matt Everhart
February 4, 2016
"Ray's in Town So We're Having A Meeting" Boy, will this man be missed! "Gentle Giant" accurately describes Ray, as well as one of the nicest, kindest people ever. We love you, Ray! RIP
Mike & Pam HInds
February 4, 2016
RIP Dear friend and Brother.You have been a great friend of mine for many years and to Pam the last 5 years. Both of us love you and we will miss you. "Well done Thy good and faithful Servant. Farewell.
Becky & Phil Antrim
February 4, 2016
Sande, Russ, Jessica & the Picl family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Ray always had a kind word and smile and would ask about my family whenever I seen him. We enjoyed celebrating the Fourth of July at the lake with your family and brother over the past few years. He was alot of fun to be around, always had us laughing.
Rest in Peace, Ray.
Rhonda Hadley
February 4, 2016
Have known this family and Ray my whole life! My deepest heartfelt sympathy to the Picl family and friends. Keeping you all in our hearts and prayers. RIH Ray Jr.....you will be missed. I will miss your silly facebook posts that kept me laughing. I know heaven gained a special angel and you are humoring them all! With deepest condolences, Rhonda & Darrell Hadley
(Rhonda Gaul)
February 4, 2016
Aunt Lou, Uncle Ray and Vicky,
We are sorry for your sudden loss, Ray was a great guy, and loved by many. I will cherish the great cousin memories I have growing up with Ray.
I am unable to attend the services, but please know that all of you and Ray have been in our prayers since we heard the news. May God offer peace and guidance thru this most difficult time.
Love,
Paul & Alicia Wuthrich
Jeanette Finn
February 4, 2016
To the Picl Family He was a great friend!
Scott & Gina White
February 4, 2016
Rest In Peace Ray! You left us way too soon and will be greatly missed by many. What a great brother, friend, son and man! Many, many found memories and laughs. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Picl family and friends. Cheers Ray!
Carol Knight-Krosse
February 4, 2016
My thoughts are with the entire Picl family. Celebrate all he was. Have lots of pictures! Hugs to everyone.
Cindi Staples
February 4, 2016
So sorry.y thoughts and prayers go out to all the Picl family and Vicky as well.
Theresa and Richard Abel
February 4, 2016
Our prayers are with the family for your lose. Ray Jr. always had a smile that went on forever.
Bill Smith
February 4, 2016
Prayers to the Picl family on the loss of a great son and brother. Rest in Peace Ray jr.
Rose Watson
February 4, 2016
Vicky, Devin and Ray's Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. I know the pain of losing one you Love dearly. Please know that my thoughts and Prayers are with you at this sad time.
Lori Croft Collins
February 4, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to Rays family and friends. Such a sad day to lose a good friend. Rest in peace Ray.
john brown
February 4, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with the Picl family
February 4, 2016
RIP My brother I love you!!!!!!
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