Dr. Raymond J. Adamek

Dr. Raymond J. Adamek, 89, Emeritus Professor of Sociology at Kent State University and father of 11, passed away at home in Kent, September 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Raymond was born on May 26, 1935, to John and Genevieve Adamek. He was raised in Buffalo, NY, where he met Judith M. Adamek, née Perkinson, his wife of nearly 66 years.

Ray, a deeply loved father, raised his family with Catholic values and sociological wisdom. He was humble, reliable, respectful, and dutiful, with a wry sense of humor. He had an art for not offending others. He treated all his children with fairness and unwavering support, respecting each of their unique paths and life choices. When his children were young, Ray would load up the family station wagon or van and embark on cross-country trips to Colorado, West Virginia, or Florida, determined to share the wonders of America’s natural landscapes with them. The only thing his children ever teased him about was his overwhelming kindness.

Ray meticulously selected and delivered thoughtful gifts to his grandchildren. As a husband, Ray was unwavering in his love, setting a remarkable example of devotion for his children. Ray had a deep appreciation for wildlife and Western art, spent hours feeding birds and tending to flower beds, and joyfully created lighthearted musical sketches for family talent shows, often with Judy by his side.

In his younger years, Ray was a passionate collector of jazz records and an avid accordion player. Accordion nights, where he sat on a chair in the middle of the living room as his children danced around him, filled his house with joy. Of the many genres of music Ray enjoyed, bluegrass was a favorite, and for a few years, he played a five-string banjo.

Ray earned his bachelor's degree at Canisius College in Buffalo, N.Y. Having taken part in the R.O.T.C. program at Canisius, he was commissioned a 2d Lt. in the U.S. Army upon graduation. Six weeks after graduation, he reported to Fort Benning, Georgia, where he served for two years on active duty, eventually becoming 1st Lt. After earning his Master’s at Fordham University, he taught for four years at the College of Mount St. Joseph On-the-Ohio. Ray graduated from Purdue University in the summer of 1967, after which the family moved to Kent.

Our father will remain a steadfast model of integrity and kindness for our entire extended family. We trust this legacy will also endure within the parish of St. Patrick, where Ray was an active member for decades. He regularly assisted in services and formed deep friendships with members of the church community. For over 45 years, Ray was committed to the sanctity of human life as a founding member and integral part of the leadership team at Right to Life of Northeast Ohio.

Preceded in death by his wife, Judith, and his grandsons, Benjamin Adamek and Jacob Adamek. Raymond is survived by his brothers, Ronald Adamek, and Richard (Terri) Adamek, and his sister, Nancy Gray; his children, Mary (Gary) Hermelin, Anne (Derrick) McKinney, Dr. Margaret (Eddie Johnson) Adamek, Dr. Peter (Terri Coyne) Adamek, Catherine (Ron) Thier, Elizabeth (Kevin) Heisey, Paul (Susan) Adamek, Dr. Philip Adamek, Patrick (Julie) Adamek, Rachel (Bruce) Scott, and John (Missy Crawford) Adamek; 26 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Right to Life of Northeast Ohio (https://www.rtlofneo.com) or Birthright of Cleveland (https://birthrightofcleveland.com/).

Calling hours will be 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Thursday, October 3, 2024 at Bissler and Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St., Kent, Ohio 44240. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Friday, October 4, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 313 N. Depeyster St., Kent Ohio 44240, with Rev. Fr. David Bridling as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Standing Rock Cemetery.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St., Kent, Ohio 44240.