Oct 5, 2021

Raymond Julius Bertovich Sr., 84, of Avella, passed away in his son’s arms on Sunday, October 3, 2021, in his home surrounded by family, after a lengthy illness.

Ray was born on October 3, 1937, in Marianna, son of the late George James and Elizabeth Bessie Simon Bertovich.

He attended Avella High School and worked as a meat smoker for American Foods for over 35 years.

Ray enjoyed being outside, cutting grass, listening to Polka music and was always busy doing something. He truly loved life and was known for entertaining his family and friends down at “Ray’s Pavilion”.

On April 4, 1959, in Independence, he married Wilda Mae Oiler, who survives.

Surviving in addition to his wife of 62 years, are four children, Linda (Ronald) Keefer, Lisa (Glenn) Lowe, Raymond J. (Cathryn) Bertovich Jr. and Kimberly Bertovich, all of Avella; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; six brothers, John (Susan) Bertovich, Charles (Sharon) Bertovich, Frank (Elizabeth) Bertovich, Danny (Wilma) Bertovich, Billy (Darlene) Bertovich and David Bertovich all of Avella; three sisters, Elizabeth Shore of Burgettstown, Carol (Danny) Torboli and Sue Ann Bertovich, both of Avella; and several nieces and nephews.

Deceased, in addition to his parents, are a daughter, Rae Antoinette Bertovich Clouston; a granddaughter, Nichole Starr Clouston Smith; two brothers, George Jr. and Michael Bertovich; and a sister, Eleanor R. Crowe.

All funeral arrangements are private and being handled by Jerome A. Stefkovich Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed at www.stefkovichfuneralhome.com.