Rinaldo J. "Ray" Zepeda Sr.

Rinaldo J. "Ray" Zepeda, Sr. 53, of Aurora, IL passed away on September 3, 2025, surrounded by his family after a courageous and hard-fought battle. He was a man of strength, warmth and humor even in life's toughest challenges.

Ray was born on January 6, 1972, in Aurora, IL the son of Frank and Aurora (Saldana) Zepeda. He had a deep love for his family and cherished every moment spent with them, whether around a table enjoying a good meal, a camping trip or a spirited board game night. His passion for cooking was matched only by his enthusiasm for going out to eat. He was a lifelong Chicago Sports fan and was a diehard Texas Longhorn Fan. Ray adored his grandson Ace. Rays' generosity was still evident even after his passing. Through his gift of donation, he was able to give the precious gift of sight so that someone else could see the world as he did. His sense of humor and kindred spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Michelle (Plata); children, Emily (Armand Escareno) Zepeda and Rinaldo (Alexander Cleveland) Zepeda, Jr.; grandson, Armand "Ace" Escareno; father, Jose "Frank" Zepeda; siblings, Esmeralda (David) Tellner, Michael (Adela) Zepeda, Jessica (Ricardo) Marmolejo, Jessie (Lilliana) Zepeda and Jose A.(Silvia) Zepeda; mother-in-law Manuela Plata and sister-in-law, Diane F. Plata. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Aurora Zepeda and father-in-law Julio F. Plata.

Family will be receiving guests on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dieterle Memorial Home, 1120 S. Broadway Ave. Montgomery, IL 60538. Funeral mass will be on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Peter Catholic Church 925 Sard Ave. Aurora, IL 60506. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

For directions and online guestbook visit www.dieterlememorialhome.com