Mr. Raymond William Will

Raymond William Will, 95, died on November 17, 2024. Raymond was born in Teaneck, New Jersey on February 26, 1929, the only child of William Will and Marie Johanna (nee Kleindienst) Will. He attended Teaneck High where he met his future wife Cynthia Maud McPherson. He was accepted at Stevens Institute of Technology and graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Besides excelling academically, he was an avid baseball player at both the high school and college level, a love that would lead him to coach his children in Little League baseball and softball for many years. After graduation, Raymond was recruited by Bethlehem Steel Corporation in Baltimore Maryland, where he worked for his entire career and retired as General Forman for the Rod and Wire Mill. He took great pride in his work and would proudly share stories of producing the wire for a number of projects such as the cables used in the construction of the Delaware Memorial Suspension Bridge. Raymond was a man of great faith which led him to locate his first home near a Missouri Synod church, Immanuel Lutheran, where he was active member for 73 years. Over these years he had many leadership roles including President of the Congregation. Both Raymond, wife and children spent years supporting church activities such as the sour beef dinner and candy making. In addition to providing a strong religious foundation for his seven children, Raymond encouraged a strong work ethic, valuing family and finding one’s own path in life. Raymond took time to enjoy life. He loved reading, especially history books and his memory was amazing. His interests included sailing and time at many favorite beaches such as Cape Cod, the Outer Banks, Assateague Island and Cozumel, Mexico. Beach trips always amazing and treasured family vacations. Raymond passed this love of the beach to his children and grandchildren who all thank him for the beach memories and his love and support over the years. Raymond is survived by five of his seven children, Suzanne Gaudian (Robert), Douglas (Cathy), Bruce (Mary), Jennifer Ward (Mark), and Jefferson (Tina), daughters-in-law, Susan and Sharon, grandchildren: Erin, Katherine, Amy, Eric, Dawn, Steven, Bryant, Justin, Brandon, Kristen, Andrew, Julie, Megan, Ellen, Laura, David, Katie, Brian, Sarah, Matthew, Alex and fifteen great grandchildren. Raymond was preceded in death by his loving wife of 65 years, Cynthia Maud, sons Bradley William and Gary Raymond and granddaughter, Lauren Elizabeth Will. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Raymond's name may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Mr. Raymond William Will

February 26, 1929 - November 17, 2024