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Raymond Vincent Cegielski was born on July 17, 1947 in Houston and passed away Monday July 31, 2017 at West Houston Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer.
A native Houstonian, Raymond attended Blessed Sacrament Catholic School, St. Thomas, and graduated from Austin High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and completed a tour in Vietnam. He was Honorably Discharged and received a Bronze Star. He held numerous jobs before starting a career in retail sales. He was employed at Saks Fifth Avenue and later Barney's of New York. He excelled in his profession and won numerous recognitions, awards, and promotions.
Raymond was an inspiration as he fought cancer. No complaints, always turning negatives into positives, and accepting whatever he was dealt. The Doctors and Nurses always acknowledged his great attitude. His last day was spent exactly the way he wished: having a great time with family in, of all places, Chappell Hill to meet and greet visitors from Poland, including the Governor from the region of the Cegielski ancestors and the Governor's family. They later enjoyed a Music Festival in Brenham.
We honestly believe that in his last moments of consciousness right before his stroke he heard a summons, "Come home with me and you will be cured. You have fought a good fight."
Raymond is preceded in death by his parents, Max Bennie Cegielski and Julia Bilski Cegielski. Also preceded in death sisters Irene Bourgeois, Bebiann Wright; nieces Lean Wright Buquo, Andrea Bourgeois Bragg, and nephews Steven Wright and Sean Longmuir and brothers in law, Jon Wright and Hugh Painter.
He is survived by his brother, Max Cegielski and spouse Margo; sisters Dorothy Painter and Cynthia Longmuir, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to our niece Laura Archibald for her help during our hour of need. The family will be receiving family and friends for Military Honors at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston Texas 77038, on August 15, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. and a Celebration of Life Service. A reception will be held inside of American Heritage Funeral Home. Following this, the family will depart to Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston Texas 77038.
In lieu of usual remembrances, donations may be made in Raymond's memory to Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center attn: Voluntary/Donation Services, 2002 Holcombe Blvd, Houston Texas 77030. Must include family name and address should you wish notification of donation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by American Heritage Funeral Home.
6 Entries
August 29, 2017
Family
Vanessa Bourgeois
I remember Raymond always taking pictures growing up. He is the keeper of the family story. Another favorite memory is dancing with him at the family reunions. Enjoy the family reunions in heaven Raymond. We all will be there soon enough.
August 15, 2017
Friend
Susana Lopez
We will miss you Raymond!
August 14, 2017
Raymond was a classmate of mine at Austin High School and I will remember him for his quick wit. RIP
Sondra Tarver Fitch
August 14, 2017
Marc Montgomery
Raymond spent the last decade with the Montgomery Family. It seemed to be fate and turned into a blessing that we came together. We had many years of living, working and fun with Raymond's positive attitude that was infinite. He was one of our family and seemed to turn into a older brother. He will live in our hearts and minds forever. We do and will miss him dearly. He is now our angel in our minds.
August 9, 2017
Linda Vlasek
Raymond was a classmate of mine at SFA High School. I will always remember his smile, his contagious enthusiasm and friendship.
RIP my friend.
August 2, 2017
Family
Craig Cegielski
Raymond was a well-knowned member of the Cegielski Family. I will remember him best for his laughter and being passionate to the Polish heritage. He was always asking family members to gather together.... mainly so he can capture the photos of them. He should have been in more of them. My prayers will be sent for him and all his family. May the Perpetual Light shine upon you Raymond for eternity.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Funeral services provided by:
American Heritage Funeral Home10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038
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