Raymond Edward Imig

With hearts full of love and sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of Raymond Edward Imig, who left this world on March 31, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply. A lifelong resident of Park Ridge and Des Plaines, Illinois, Ray lived a life rich with meaning, laughter, and generosity-his spirit a quiet light in the lives of many.

Born in Des Plaines on September 28, 1937, Ray was devoted to family and called to serve others from an early age. He began his career as an educator, shaping young minds for more than 30 years in Park Ridge District 64. Even after retiring from the classroom, his work continued. Earning his CADC license, Ray served as a counselor and an intake coordinator at Keys to Recovery for another 25 years, helping countless individuals on their journeys to healing.

Ray's hands were never idle. Alongside his beloved wife, Ginger, he nurtured small businesses that became local treasures. From the sweet scent of fresh doughnuts at Imigs' Café to the music-filled aisles of Crossroads Record Shop - where he also created custom t-shirts with flair - Ray brought warmth, creativity, and community to everything he touched.

Service was at the core of Ray's life. A proud member of the Elks and the Des Plaines Lions Club, he gave generously of his time and talents. He volunteered for HOTLINE (a local help line in Park Ridge), lent his time to MCYAF (a nationally recognized coalition preventing underage substance use in Maine Township), supported the Self-Help Closet and Pantry of Des Plaines, and served on the Des Plaines District 62 School Board. In every role, he acted not for praise, but from a deep sense of purpose.

Ray moved through life with quiet strength and a boundless heart-an encourager, a builder, a steady hand. He taught us to show up, to listen, and to care. In doing so, he left a mark that is both lasting and profound.

Ray had many passions. He loved music and embraced life as "A Ray of Sunshine," dancing through each day. He collected antiques and found joy in sharing their stories through display. In recent years, he found a new passion in crafting colorful, heartfelt buttons-small tokens of kindness offered to all who crossed his path.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Virginia (Ginger) Imig, and their children: Brian (Laura) Imig, Laura Mendoza, Chris (Jill) Imig, Lori Imig, and Michele (Mike) Nielsen, and his brother Jeff Imig.

His legacy lives on in 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and in every life he touched. Ray now reunites with his parents, Ray and Frances Imig; his sister, Mary Fallest; his son, Doug Imig; and his grandson, Julian Hernandez-beloved souls who walked before him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 1, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at the Frisbie Senior Center, 52 East Northwest Highway, Des Plaines, Il 60016. All who knew and loved Ray are warmly invited to join in honoring a life beautifully lived.

Donations may be made in Ray's memory to the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias.

Though Ray has left this earth, his spirit remains-in shared laughter, in lessons remembered, and in quiet kindnesses passed forward. His was a life not only long, but full-and deeply, tenderly lived.