Ray Zuhlke, 76, of Port Richey, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2024, with his wife at bedside. Born on October 25, 1948, in Chicago, Ray was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Jackie “Red” Martin; his children, Patty (Adam) Burroughs; Michelle Kopke; Julie (David) Tarjan; Amy (David) Hurd; Dana Zuhlke; Matthew (Tiffany) Bomkamp; Lisa Zuhlke; 17 grandchildren; and a brother Tom Zuhlke.

Ray loved the Bears and also loved watching them play the Packers as his wife Red and him were rivals when it came to football games. However, outside of those games he was the most nurturing and caring husband to her.

Ray was an amazing business man and owned multiple restaurant/bar businesses and connected with anyone that walked into the door. Besides spending time working, Ray enjoyed boating with friends and family back in Northern Illinois, golfing, or singing to his favorite song Battle of New Orleans by Johnny Horton. He was a great pool player and loved to make people laugh with his humor.

Ray has touched many lives, and will be missed by many. A special thank you to the Gulfside Hospice / Rucki Hospice Care Center staff; especially Stevanna, Cherrylynn, Diana and all the others.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life gathering on January 12, 2025 from 2-4pm at Veterans of Foreign Wars in Hudson. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Gulfside Hospice 2061 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes, FL 34639. Attn: Carla Armstrong.