Raymond C. Jablonski, age 69 of Chesterton, passed away on August 31, 2011 with his family at his side.

He was born on October 17, 1941 in Chicago to Sylvester and Helen (Bystrzyki) Jablonski.

On October 22, 1966 he married Sandra (Mikolajczyk) in Gary, Indiana, who survives.

He is also survived by son Eric Jablonski and daughter Christine Jablonski, as well as by his sister, Diane (Edward) Cremens and brother in law, Joseph Klodzen.

Raymond is also survived by his nieces, Joyce (Greg) Lind, Jeanette Klodzen and Julie (Joe) Steele; nephews, Jim Klodzen and Matt (Shelly) Cremens and numerous cousins. Also surviving are his aunt Adeline Sikich and uncle Hank (Virg) Bystrzyki, and special “grand-dog” Cleo.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father in law, Walter and LaVerne Mikolajczyk; sister in law Shirley Klodzen; several aunts, uncles and “special girl”, Kasi.

Ray graduated from CVS High School in 1959. He joined the Marine Reserves in 1963 and was honorably discharged in 1969.

Ray retired from Xerox with 24 years of service in 1998. After retirement, he spent a few years at Majestic Star as a slot tech. Ray was a “fix it” man. He loved Michigan, fishing and boating. He also liked to play the penny slots.

He will be greatly missed and remembered with love.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 638 N. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, with Father James Meade officiating. Burial will follow at Chesterton Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 2, 2011 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind. A wake service will be held on Friday, September 2, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the VNA Hospice, 2401 Valley Dr., Valparaiso, Ind.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.EE-FH.com

Posted 9/1/2011