Raymond Joseph Puzio

Raymond Joseph Puzio, known fondly as Ray by his friends and family, passed away peacefully due to old age on April 19, 2024, in Ellicott City, Maryland. Born on September 23, 1931, in Clifton, New Jersey, to Antoni and Mary Puzio, Ray grew up in a close-knit family alongside his siblings Henry and Dolores. His life was a testament to the values of kindness, love, and friendship, which he embodied every day.

Ray's early life was marked by his service to his country. A proud Navy veteran, he served as a meteorologist at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Key West, Florida, during the Korean War. His dedication to his nation was mirrored in his commitment to his community, where he worked tirelessly as an Environmental and Urban Planner for the Maryland Department of Planning for many years. Ray's academic pursuits led him to earn a Bachelor's degree from Seton Hall University, followed by a Master's degree in Environmental and Urban Planning from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana.

In his personal life, Ray was a devoted husband to his late wife, Gail Puzio. Together, they raised two daughters, Kristin Puzio and Faith Puzio. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and he took immense pride in his role as a father and grandfather to Emily and Juliana Welker. Ray's joy was further multiplied with the addition of his son-in-law Dr. John Stephen Dumler, and Jake Nelson, partner to Juliana, into the family fold. His extended family, including his brother-in-law Larry King and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, will dearly miss his warmth and guidance.

Ray's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. An ardent fan of the Baltimore Colts and later the Baltimore Ravens, he found joy in the thrills of the game. His love for fishing, camping, and visiting parks was a reflection of his deep connection with the environment. A lifelong learner, Ray enjoyed stamp collecting, delving into history, and traveling to new places. His evenings were often spent with British mysteries and comedies, which he watched with the same enthusiasm he brought to his advocacy for civil and equal rights for all.

As a passionate environmentalist, Ray's legacy is not only etched in the policies and plans he helped craft but also in the natural beauty he worked so hard to preserve for future generations. His commitment to his profession and the environment was matched by his dedication to spending quality time with his family and friends, who were the recipients of his boundless love and friendship.

In reflecting on Ray's life, the words of Helen Keller resonate deeply: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Ray's kindness, loving nature, and friendly demeanor have indeed become a part of all who knew him, ensuring that his spirit will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

Raymond Joseph Puzio's life was one of purpose, service, and immense love. His story is not just one of personal achievements but also of the relationships he nurtured and the community he helped build. As we bid farewell to Ray, we celebrate a life well-lived and cherish the many memories he leaves behind. His was a life that truly made a difference, and he will be remembered with great affection and respect by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to either the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (in honor of Ray's work), or the National Immigration Law Center, in honor of his Polish immigrant parents.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond Joseph Puzio, please visit our floral store.