Raymond E. Zbinden

Raymond E. Zbinden of Aroma Park passed away on Friday, October 27, 2023 - at his home with his family. Ray was born on September 2, 1928 in Cissna Park, IL. He was the son of Benjamin Franklin and Margaret (Heuer) Zbinden. His first marriage was to Peggy Quimby in 1958 and she proceeded him in death in 2022. His second marriage to the love of his life, Patricia Henry was in 1985 and she proceeded him in death in 2018. Ray was also preceded in death by three brothers and six sisters (Ernie, Daniel, Maynard, Viola, Vera, Irene, Marceille, Wilma and Beulah. He was also preceded in death by a step-daughter, Kelly Hoylman in 2013. Ray served in the US Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany as a radar operator. He was an active member of the American Legion, the VFW, the Elks Club, the Moose, and the Aroma Park Boat Club. He was a union carpenter for 44 years, a member of local 496. Over his 95 years, he was a lifelong hunting and fishing enthusiast. He also enjoyed travel, and he was a voracious reader and an excellent cook. There will be a celebration of life remembrance party to be held at the Aroma Park Boat Club at a date to be announced later. Ray is survived by a son, Daniel R. Zbinden of Yorkville, IL who has been married to Jean (Shawhan) for 35 years; he is also survived by a daughter, Becky Wessels of Knoxville TN, who has been married to Dean for 38 years. Ray is also survived by two step-children from his marriage to Patricia; Tracy Moss of Bradley, and Drew. Ray is also survived by ten grandchildren, Lindsey Hauser (CO), Drew Hoylman (CO), Joseph Wessels (TN), Katie Henry (IL), Laura Zbinden (IL), Jacob Wessels (TN), Colby Campbell (CA), Ben Zbinden (TX), Carly Campbell (CA), Molly Moss (IL). Ray’s surviving great-grandchildren are William, Madison and Payton. Jensen Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.