Raymond B. Kolnik, Delavan  (1927 - 2009)

November 12, 1927 - June 13, 2009
Raymond B. Kolnik passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2009, at his home in Westshire Farms, Delavan. Raymond and his surviving wife, Dorothy (Montgomery), would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary June 17, 2009. Raymond and Dorothy spent almost 50 years on the Big Foot Prairie, west of Walworth, raising five children. Raymond's character, charm, wisdom, humor, pride, strength, and work ethic are evidenced in each of his children: Raymond (Jeanne) of Walworth, Mike (Gail) of Walworth, Linda Austin (Rich) of Walworth, Joe (June) of Walworth, and Tim (Laura) of Sharon.
Raymond was born on Nov. 12, 1927, to John and Hattie (Taranowski) Kolnik, in Chicago, IL. He was the youngest member of a combined family of 14 children, all of whom have since passed. Raymond's admiration and respect for his mother and siblings was demonstrated over and over by the thousands of stories and memories that he told about them over the years. Raymond inherited an intense pride in his Polish and Slovakian heritage from his family, and endeavored to pass it on to his own. Raymond's affection for Glumke and Polka music were well-known to his friends and family.
Raymond was an entrepreneur. Through years of hard work he developed and operated an enduring trucking company, known as Kolnik Trucking. During his career he also co-owned and operated a sod farm and a tree nursery.
Raymond's passion for the great outdoors was a hallmark of his life and another legacy that he passed on to the surviving generations. Raymond was always happy when he was deer hunting in Northern Wisconsin; fishing in Canada with his brothers, sons, and friends; or deep sea fishing in the Florida Keys. It remains unclear if he was a better sportsman or storyteller. Of concern to some, was his lifelong dedication to the Chicago Bears.
Raymond was a grandpa to 22 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Grandpa Ray's funny antics and stories were only outmatched by his constant and enormous interest in the developments and activities of their lives.
Services for Raymond B. Kolnik will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 20 2009, at IMMANUEL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST in Walworth, WI, with Rev. Elizabeth Hazel, officiating. Visitation will be Friday, June 19, from 4 until 8 p.m. at the TOYNTON FUNERAL HOME IN WALWORTH, WI. Entombment will be in Roselawn Cemetery at Williams Bay, WI.