Raymond J. Wisniewski

1923 - 2016

Raymond John Wisniewski, formerly of Glastonbury, CT passed away on March 9, 2016 at Avery Heights, Hartford, CT at the age of almost 93. Ray, as he was known by his family and friends, was born in Syracuse, NY on March 30, 1923. After spending a rich childhood with his two brothers and sister in the Polish neighborhood of Syracuse, he served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the War, he graduated with an architecture degree from Syracuse University, where he also met his wife Sally Claire Swierstra, his partner in life and love for the rest of his life. Ray was deeply devoted to Sally even through the difficult times near the end of his life. Ray spent the rest of his life living, working, creating, recreating and raising a family in Connecticut, first in Simsbury, and for over 50 years in Glastonbury. His warmth and distinctive sense of humor were appreciated by all who knew him. His career as an architect began at Butterfield Architects of West Hartford, included partnerships at Davis, Brody & Wisniewski of New York and Associated Architects of Farmington, CT, and his own practice in Windsor, CT, focused primarily on schools. As a second career, Ray taught architecture at Hartford State technical College, where he was instrumental in developing the program, including serving as the Department Head. He was a very hands-on builder and craftsman, and his workshop was fundamental to his way of life. Over the years he built five homes for his family, in Simsbury, Glastonbury, Quononchontaug RI and Weekapaug RI. Ray was also an accomplished artist, especially his watercolors. He was a member of the Connecticut Watercolor Society, which awarded him many prizes for his work over the years. For over 70 years his highly original Christmas cards were cherished by family and friends. Ray is survived by his wife Sally, his daughter Paula of Traverse City, MI, and his sons Jan of Santa Fe, NM and Michael of Evergreen, CO, and grandchildren Laura and Jenna, also of Evergreen. A Celebration of Rays' life will be held at a time and place yet to be determined.