Raymond A. Nowicki, 80, of Poplar Grove, passed away on October 27, 2008 in his home following a lengthy illness. Ray was born in Chicago, Ill. on June 2, 1928. He served in the Korean War and left the service at the rank of Corporal, eventually becoming a DAV. Raymond spent the majority of his life as a Master Carpenter leaving his creative trademark in various counties in Illinois as well as in Branson, Missouri. His hobbies included family camping, fishing and Casino trips. Raymond recently moved to Poplar Grove after living in Branson, Mo. for 26 years. He is preceded in death by his mother, Pauline Nowicki and father, Frank Nowicki, Sr. and brother, Frank Nowicki, Jr. Ray is survived by his wife of 55 years, Muriel "Sam" Nowicki, a son, Dale (Carla) Nowicki, of Berwyn, Ill.; daughter, Sheryl (Mike) Schober, of Robstown, Texas and two grandsons and a granddaughter.