Raymond “Ray” Bastek Sr., 71, passed away peacefully on July 18th 2023. He was born in Southington CT by his loving parents Florence Geetersloh, and Stanley Bastek. Ray is survived by his loving wife Judy (Hebenstreit), bowling partner and best friend – his son, Dave, and his nurturing granddaughter Dallas. He is also survived by his in-laws, Maryann, Val, Marianne, Thea, Tony, John; along with several nieces and nephews and his best friends Ken and Peg.

He worked at various manufacturing companies including; Aero Enjet, Morgan Advanced Materials, Tuttle and Bailey and more.

Ray was a strong willed and warm hearted; friend, husband of 49 years, Dad and Papa. He enjoyed bowling every Thursday at Apple Valley Bowl in a league called, “Sportsmen”. He treasured each moment teaching Dave and Dallas how to bowl. Ray enjoyed watching the history channel with Dallas as they tried solving the world’s mysteries. He absolutely adored going on annual road trips to Wildwood NJ with Judy just to watch the sun-set and rise. He loved his gas station trips where he would drink his morning, afternoon, and night coffees while scratching his hopeful winning lotto tickets. During the warm parts of the year, he loved fishing and any fish he caught, felt like it was made of gold.

Ray spent most of his time with his family. He created a beautiful garden that will forever grow inside and out of our hearts. People who met Ray never forgot his words of wisdom, infinite kindness, selfless actions, giving spirit, and enormous heart.

Those that were fortunate enough to have known Ray were truly blessed. He has made an impact on every life that he touched. Ray will be missed so very much by his family. Ray was consistently surrounded by rich love. All of the nurses and staff at the Hospital of Central CT surrounded Ray with optimism and love, and his family can’t thank them enough in addition to the Shoprite family and their continuous support.

During this homecoming, Heaven gained a beautiful soul. Though gone in this world, Ray joined Heaven with his poker pals, Joe, Emile, Eddie, in addition to his brother Bill and nephew Steven.

Friends and family are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday (July 24) at 10:30 AM at St. Joachim Parish (St. Mary Church) 544 Main St. New Britain. Burial will following in St. Mary Cemetery, 1141 Stanley St. New Britain. Visitation will be held on Sunday (July 23) from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at the Farrell Funeral Home, 110 Franklin Sq. New Britain.