Raymond J. Patala was born on August 14, 1949 in Rome, New York and died on July 13, 2025, in Ormond Beach, Florida at the age of 75.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Rose Marie Patala.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Sue Ellen Banich Patala, his only sibling and brother, Robert Patala and his wife Barbara of Somerville, South Carolina; nieces Jennifer, Mary and Katherine; was close through his wife's family, Robert and Regina Dunemann of Louisburg, NC, Paul and Judy Trotter of Powell, TN, and many cousins in Florida and New York.

Ray graduated from Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken New Jersery class of 1972. Ray was an engineer for the Naval Civil Service during the length of his career. He loved reading and the study of history, from the Peloponnesian wars through, Roman, Greek and later wars of Britain, France, Germany and the United States. Ray could recite the names of the leaders, generals and commanders of Army's where skirmishes took place and major battles, who won or lost. He was a wonderful storyteller embued with his wonderful exceptional memory. He always loved playing board games, chess, backgammon and even playing word games. He did not like to lose.  He will be forever missed.

A private graveside inurnment service will be held in the future.