Raymond "Ray" A. Nyen, of Roscoe, IL, was called home on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, surrounded by his family at the age of 95. Born on April 11, 1930, in the town of Blair, Wisconsin, the son of Albert and Gida (Pederson) Nyen.
Ray served in the Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Wasp during the Korean Conflict. He traveled around the world three times, where he earned his Shellback status. Following his military service, he worked as a maintenance electrician, a career that spanned decades, along with being a jack of all trades, passing his strong work ethic on to his children. Married the love of his life Dora Lee on February 11, 1956. Ray had a passion for old-time music and was known for his skillful guitar playing, that brought joy to family gatherings and events. He was a member of the Nyen Nordic Band where he played alongside his brothers and son. The band was recognized by the Wisconsin Library of Congress for their Norwegian song “Ole Nyen’s Waltz.”
Ray was a great husband, father and grandfather, cherishing his time with family, enjoying many laughs and creating countless memories, whether it was traveling every summer in their camper or celebrating birthdays and holidays, he would always light up a room with his stories and end every evening with a “you guys be careful now, love you.”
Survivors include his children, April (Tom) Giamalva, Kerry (Kathy) Nyen, Raelene (Fred) Hann, Laura Johnson (Jamie Leopold), Eric (Amanda) Nyen; grandchildren, Hailee (Evan), Dina (Mason), Kyle (Ashley), Kaylyn (Lance), Josh (Danielle), Jacob (Veronica), Janelle, Jordon (Amanda), Sarah (Danny), Emmie, Erica and Elaina; great-grandchildren, Ailani, Vivian, Ryan, Brody, Geneva, Elijah, Abel, Ava and Declan; numerous nieces and nephews; and loving canine companion, Raven.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dora Lee; son-in-law, Jorri Johnson; brothers, Alvin, Kermit and Konrad; and sisters, Hazel and Gloria.
Family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate Raymond’s life at 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with visitation from noon to service time. Private burial in Roscoe Township Cemetery.