Raymond Zukowski

Raymond J. Zukowski, age 91, passed away Thursday, September 19, 2019, in Naples, Florida.

A proud Cleveland native and the son of determined Polish immigrant parents, Zygmunt and Aleksandra, Raymond cherished his 64-year marriage to his beloved bride, Mary Ann.

After graduating from St. Casimir School and East Technical High School, he pursued Mechanical Engineering at Fenn College and The Ohio State University.  Thereafter, he served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

Upon his return, Raymond joined his father’s small company, which he grew to become Euclid Industries, Inc., a leader in aftermarket heavy-duty truck parts for many decades.  His focus on details and long-term decisions made the Euclid brand synonymous with quality and customer service.  He treasured and was respected by employees, customers and competitors alike.  In addition to receiving honors from the industry, he was the regional winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Ray had a wide range of interests that filled his life with never-ending wonder.  He loved nature, whether gardening, tromping through the woods, or watching a brilliant Gulf sunset.  He was as comfortable with a chain saw as with a 9-iron, and his post-retirement woodcarving hobby revealed an artistic side as well.  He also enjoyed history, travel, billiards, reading, craftsmanship of any kind, and sharing time and tales with friends and family.

A man of integrity, character and quiet strength, Ray was often referred to as a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

His faith and family were the cornerstones of his life.  In addition to his wife, he leaves behind daughters Ann Marie Wakeen (husband Kenneth), Michele Canty (husband Michael), and Christine Zukowski, as well as two dear grandchildren, Jonathan Wakeen and Alexis Canty.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Raymond to St. Casimir Church, c/o St. Stanislaus Church 3649 East 65th Street Cleveland, OH 44105 ATTN: Rev. Fr. Eric Orzech or VITAS Hospice Healthcare of Collier County 4980 N. Tamiami Trail N Suite 102 Naples, FL 34103.  Private Mass of Christian Burial and Interment.  Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Raymond at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) THURSDAY 4-7 PM.  Online obituary and guestbook at www.DeJohnCares.com.