Raymond "Ray" Behnke

GALVA – Raymond C. “Ray” Behnke, 94, of Galva, died at 10:22 a.m., Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 7, 1931 in Burns Township, IL, the son of John and Virginia (Mandle) Behnke. He married Alice Evans in 1953 in Galva and she preceded him in death on April 14, 2010. Survivors include his son, Bradley Behnke of Florida, his two daughters, Christine (Clint) Smith of Peoria, AZ and Kim Lister of Galva, three grandchildren; Ryan Smith, Geri Siemers and Brett Smith and five great grandchildren; Malcolm Smith, Liam Siemers, Emma Smith, Jensen Siemers and Brynlee Smith. He was also preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Donald.

Ray graduated from Galva High School in 1949 and served his country in U.S. Air Force from 1951-55. He worked as the airline administrator for American Airlines for 32 years until his retirement. He was a member of the Galva American Legion, Lake Calhoun Country Club and the Galva Wildcat Hall of Fame. He was an avid fan of the Galva Wildcats and the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing and playing poker.

A public visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, June 27 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Private graveside services will be held at Galva Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. Memorials may be directed to the Galva Athletic Boosters or to Galva American Legion Hagberg-Hamlin Post 45.

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