Obituary of Raymond M. Benz

Raymond M. “Big Ray” Benz, 63, of Syracuse passed away on Monday, May 8, 2017 at Upstate Hospital surrounded by his loving family.  He was born June 15, 1953 in Syracuse, son to Raymond and Gladys Benz.

Big Ray was an avid Syracuse Orange, New York Yankee and Buffalo Bill fan.  He enjoyed fishing with his boys and spending time with his family, especially barbecuing. He was a little league baseball coach in his younger years where he had a profound effect on many young players.  His most favorite time of year was Christmas.  He helped Mom wrap gifts and loved seeing our faces as we opened them.

Raymond was predeceased by his parents Raymond and Gladys Benz and his granddaughter, Hailey.

He is survived by his grade school sweetheart, his wife of 45 years, Debra;  daughter Bridgett (Eric) Cook; son Raymond (Veronica) Benz; daughter Summer (Aaron) Simmons; son Michael (Crystal) Benz; daughter Tara Benz; daughter Shannon (Damieon) Campbell; 19 grandchildren; 1 great granddaughter; several nieces, nephews, in-laws and last but not least his cat Olaf.

You will be missed greatly Dad.  We love you.

Private services were held.