John Joseph Raymond

John Joseph Raymond

Aug. 12, 1954 - Oct. 12, 2023

GENOA - John Joseph Raymond chose to end his journey on this earth at his home in Genoa, WI on October 12, 2023.

John Raymond was born in Racine, WI on August 12, 1954, to the late Patricia and Edwin Raymond, Jr. He shared his life with three brothers and five sisters. He graduated from Racine Saint Catherine's in 1972 and he graduated from UW-Parkside in 1994 with a B.S. in Economics.

John Raymond was a man who wore many hats, was a self-taught master of trades, and had many interests. His employment ranged from being an oil rigger, gandy dancer, handyman (Jake by the Lake), janitor, and a commission salesman, a profession he referred to as the last of the wild frontier. Throughout his sales career he was employed by the Chicago White Sox, Khan-Phillips, CAD/CAM Tools, Imageware, Sensable Technologies, New Shape Technologies, and CATI. He loved talking on the phone and the art of the sale.

John Raymond was a fan of Elvis Presley, wore a "TCB" ring, and was known for making a delicious Elvis pound cake. He was a voracious reader and enjoyed reading historical novels and autobiographies. His hobbies included fishing, dancing, ice skating, playing bridge, baseball (Brewers, Cubs, White Sox), football (Packers, Badgers, Fighting Irish), betting on the horses, gardening, birding and feeding the birds (favorite birds included Cerulean Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Baltimore Oriole, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Carolina Wren, Winter Wren, and Bluebird). He had much joy watching monarchs go from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. He loved all animals, especially the unconditional love that dogs provided. He was happiest when he was walking his dogs and they brought him much enjoyment. He was involved with the Wisconsin Herpetology Society (Past President) and the Hoy Audubon Society (Former Field Trip Coordinator/Board member).

John Raymond had a passion for the arts. He was either a member of or a subscriber to the Chicago Art Institute, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago, IL. He also had an intense sense of empathy toward those less fortunate than him. He volunteered his time working with the Lion's Club of Genoa, Saint Vincent DePaul Society, Saint Patrick's Church in Racine, WI, and the Crawford Area Shelters for Animals (CASA).

John Raymond is survived by his wife, Rebecca (Becky) Spanjers and her daughter, Abigail Spanjers; his brothers: Edwin Raymond III (Peggy+), Anthony Raymond, and Peter (Edye) Raymond; his sisters: Jane Raymond, Mary (Kyle) Ainsley, Catherine Laxalt, Margaret (Jeff) Harrington, and Paula (John) Knepprath; 15 nieces and nephews; 7 grand nephews and nieces, all of whom he loved dearly; aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was the best man for Edwin, he carried Paula home from the hospital, and he was the godfather to his nephew, John Ainsley and cousin, Ben Rooney.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Leonard (infant); his sister, Carolyn (infant); his sister in-law, Peggy Raymond; his grandparents, many other relatives, and wonderful friends.

John Raymond died by suicide and his death has left a finality that is difficult to accept. We did not realize the extent of his pain or the demons he faced when alone. If you or a loved one are having suicidal thoughts, please seek help to relieve the internal pain and suffering to prevent a family from experiencing the anguish of losing a loved one in despair.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal." (Richard Puz)

John Raymond, may you rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon you. Your smile, humor, kindness, laughter, and love will be greatly missed. You are, and always will be, our "Juan in a Million".

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, your local NAMI chapter, the Harmony Club of Racine, WI, your local library, CASA or an organization of your choice.

A Celebration of Life for John Raymond is being planned and details will be shared once finalized.