Prairie State Wire

Noel "Ray" Israelson, a Navy Veteran and career railroader, passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the age of 85, at his lifelong residence in Lockport, IL. Ray retired in 2000 after working 35 years with E J & E Ry and Amtrak. He and Carol spent the last years snow-birding in Mesa, Arizona, enjoying family gatherings and Spring Training for his beloved Chicago Cubs. Ray was a proud Papa to his grandchildren and a devoted father and husband.

Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Carol Israelson, children Debora Lathim, Gary Israelson, Terri McGraw, and Brad Israelson, sister Iris Chapp, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and his faithful companion Cubbie. Preceded in death by his parents Gustave and Lena Israelson, and siblings Jean Sword, Juanita Gilkerson, Nona McClew, Alan Israelson, and Hope Marsh.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 16, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. at Anderson Memorial Home, 21131 W. Renwick Rd., Plainfield, IL 60544, with interment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet.

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