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Ray Zelinski Obituary
January 2, 1940 - April 18, 2025
Carmichael, California - Born on January 2, 1940, in Menasha, Wisconsin, Ray graduated from St. Mary's High School, Benedictine University, and Marquette University with a degree in Civil Engineering. He made California his home in 1962 and dedicated 40 years to the California Department of Transportation's Bridge Department, where he played a leading role in earthquake retrofit efforts. His expertise is reflected in bridges throughout California and beyond.
Ray embraced life fully, enjoying hiking, golfing, square dancing, playing bridge, barbecuing, fishing in Alaska, and cheering on the A's. He was devoted to service, volunteering with Loaves and Fishes, St. John's Church, and Tahoe Rim Trail, among other organizations. Ray was known for his generosity, wisdom, friendship and humor to all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol, and his children Beth, Mike, and Kathy (Rich) Murray, along with his grandchildren, Dylan and Jei Murray. Ray's presence will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.
Ray Zelinski lived a life that was both full and meaningful, characterized by a love for his family, a passion for his work, and a service to others.
A funeral mass will be held at St John the Evangelist Church at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 23rd.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ray Zelinski
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4 Entries
John McGuinn & the St. Procopius College Class of 1962
July 23, 2025
Carol and the Zelinski Family.
On behalf of Ray's St. Procopius College classmates, I want to add our praise and admiration of Ray to the tribute page. He was a beloved member of our class, attending class reunions when he could, most recently our 60th reunion in Lisle, IL, including a Zoom reunion during the Pandemic. We will miss him but we will keep his warmth and friendship in our hearts to our dying days.
Our condolences and prayers for Carol and the Zelinski family and friends
St. Procopius College Class of 1962,
by John McGuinn
Ray, may Christ give you rest in the land of the living
and open the gates of Paradise to you;
may God receive you as a citizen of the Kingdom,
and grant you blessed welcome
Alfred R. Mangus, PE
May 22, 2025
My condolences to Carol, and Ray´s family and friends. I am very sorry for your immense loss. Ray was a positive honorable man who helped me with various activities of the ASCE ( American Society of Civil Engineers). He was nominated to highest level of ASCE membership as a Fellow which requires the signatures of fifty members that agree that Ray contributed to the advancement of Civil Engineering.
Ray had a warm smile and I enjoyed spending time with him. I will miss Ray. I will keep everyone in my prayers.
Respectfully Alfred
Bob & Louise Fry
May 16, 2025
Dearest Carol and family, I had wondered why I had not seen you lately. Was so very sorry to hear of Ray's passing, he will be missed. Our Thoughts and prayers are with you, and wish you lots of Love. Hope our paths will cross again in heaven. Our deepest Condolences Bob & Louise Fry
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Calvary Catholic Cemetery & Funeral Center7101 Verner Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95621
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