Raymond J. Gast

Raymond John Gast, age 79, at rest on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife, Jo Gast; his daughter, Melissa (Hugh) Rink; son, David (Christina) Gast; daughter, Kristen (Bryan Johnson) Gast; adopted son, David Cotter; grandchildren, Ava Doucette, Lauren Morgan, Jacob Rink, Maddie Rink and Nate Rink; great-grandson, Robbie Doucette; siblings, Kathy (the late Denny) Galle and Rita (Charlie) Russella; In-laws, Mary Lou Gast, Kay (the late Darrell) Langlois, Dick (Kathy) Williams; friend, Chilly aka “my associate;” as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Clare Gast; brother, James Gast; In-laws, Geroge and Joleen Williams and Beverly and Tom Moretti; and family friend, Terry Cotter.

Raymond was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and servant to others whose quiet strength and humble spirit touched countless lives. For more than 30 years, Ray worked as a maintenance mechanic at Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, where he took pride in hard work and helping others behind the scenes.

A faithful member of Hope Lutheran Church, Ray dedicated much of his time and heart to his church community. He faithfully served on the church board and building committee and found great joy in supporting youth activities. One of the signs posted as members leave church reads, “Entering the Mission Field.” Ray lived his life following that message in countless ways, quietly stepping into the mission field wherever he saw a need, always willing to lend a hand, offer support, or simply show up for others.

Ray was an avid fan of National Hot Rod Association drag racing and he’d quickly remind you, “No roundy-round racing.” Ray had a lifelong love of reading and could often be found with a book in his hands.

Everyone who knew Ray knew him as a simple, genuine man. He was most comfortable in jeans and a T-shirt, therefore in honor of Ray and the way he lived his life, the family kindly invites those attending services to dress casually. Jeans and a T-shirt are preferred, just the way Ray would have wanted it.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a food bank of your choice.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Hope Lutheran Church, 305 W. Black Road, Shorewood, Il 60404. The family invites relatives and friends to join them for a memorial visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service to be held at 11:00 a.m. Per Ray’s wishes cremation rites have been accorded.