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Raymond Pavelka Obituary
August 16, 2016
April 7, 1949-August 16, 2016. Born in Cleveland, Ohio the son of Stan and Agnes Pavelka. Graduated with an engineering degree from Cornell University in 1971 where he captained the wrestling and lightweight football teams. Arrived on Sanibel/Captiva in the fall of 1972 and spent the rest of his life in love with the islands. Ray held senior management positions with The Mariner Group and later as the owner/operator of Mariner Properties Development and Little Pine Island Mitigation Bank. He enjoyed longtime involvement with Sanibel CHR, Harry Chapin Food Bank and Sanibel Community Church and would welcome donations to these organizations in lieu of flowers.
Ray is survived by his sister Alice Pego, daughters Betsy Hanks and Amy Pavelka, his wife Maryelle Sanford Pavelka and her daughters Valerie Davis and Caline McDermott, plus eight beautiful grandchildren.
Ray was preceded in death by both parents and by his wife, Deborah White Pavelka. Ray lived a life full of joy, deeply loved Jesus and is ready to spend his eternity in the presence of his savior. A memorial service will be held on Friday evening, September 16th at the Sanibel Community Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Pavelka
Sponsored by The News-Press.
MaLaisha Rayner
August 14, 2021
It´s been 5 years, and I still think about you often. I am so grateful for your impact in my life. Some ways tangible, some ways intangible. I still remember Amy being upset with me for not standing up for myself. Haha, your daughter was a real friend to me. I still carry many Pavelka lessons with me to this day. Thank you!
MaLaisha Rayner
October 27, 2016
Mr. Ray,
I loved you like you were my own father. Thank you for the love you showed. Thank you for raising two strong, independent women; one of whom is my friend. Thank you for sharing your family with me.
Stanley Pond
September 12, 2016
Ray, You were a dear friend. You were a kind, generous, boisterous, thoughtful and intelligent visionary leader. Sanibel will feel your loss very deeply. Special condolences to Amy and Betsy; you are in my prayers. Thank you for the adventures we had, the long talks, the crab feeds and our shared spirituality; most of all, thank you for being a great friend and great spirit.
Rhonda Henning
September 8, 2016
Many great memories of getaways with our families. Amy and Betsy I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a great guy and will be greatly missed by this community.
August 29, 2016
Dear Ray,
You will be remembered as a very kind, soulful man. May peace be with you now and forever.
Marlene
August 29, 2016
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Stephanie Keyes
August 23, 2016
I am so very sorry for your loss, I worked with Ray for years and he was just a wonderful person that always helped me so very much. He was always so gracious and kind.
Dianne Walton
August 22, 2016
I knew Ray very well while he helped us with our St. Andrews project at Fiddlesticks Country Club. I am absolutely stunned at his passing. Whenever I need help with anything regarding St. Andrews, I would always call Ray and he was so helpful. I will miss him.
August 21, 2016
Dear Marielle,
I am so sorry for your loss. Ray was a very good and kind man and a wonderful grandfather to our grandkids. I'm sure they will miss him as well. I'm sure he is looking down with a smile for you and happy he had you in his life these past few years. I will keep you in my prayers. God bless you Marielle. Love Lori
Erika Penna
August 21, 2016
Maryelle I am sorry for the loss of Ray . I have no words for this Loss! Please call me when you can 203-512-8556 Erika Penna
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