Raymond R. Panaia

Raymond R. Panaia, 89, of Deer Park, passed away September 6, 2019 after a brief illness. He was able to spend his last days with his family by his side. Raymond was born June 4, 1930 in Pittsburgh, PA to Vincenzo and Theresa (nee Cusaro) Panaia, who together had immigrated from southern Italy. Raymond was a veteran of the Korean War, dedicated husband and father, woodworker, amateur historian, gourmet food aficionado, and community entrepreneur who founded the Plum Aqua Club in suburban Pittsburgh. He is survived by his children, Kathleen (Vince) Panaia-Luber, Michael (Nancy) Panaia and Patricia (Thomas Sharples) Panaia; grandchildren, Lauren Luber (David Martin), Kristin Luber and Matthew Panaia; brother, Robert (Jean) Panaia; two great-grandchildren, Parker Martin and Emerson Martin; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, and gourmet chef partner, of 60 years, Maureen E. Panaia.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 18, from 4pm until 8pm at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich. Visitation will continue Thursday, September 19, from 10am until the time of a service at 11am at the funeral home. Burial and military honors will follow at St. John Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Disabled Veterans at www.dav.org.