Raymond Walter Runnels

Raymond Walter Runnels of Downers Grove, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 14, 2023, at the age of 67. This was where “Butch” has been, since April 1, 2023, to be closer to his family during his medical issues.

Raymond had graduated from Downers Grove North High School, with the class of 1974. He worked hard at numerous jobs, while living in Illinois and Wisconsin throughout his life. He loved working for the carnival during the season, by enjoying traveling and making friends. 

He is survived by his daughter, Leslie-Ann (Jason) Runnels-Weaver; son, Matthew (Stacia) Runnels; ex-wife, Hazel (Runnels) nee Hess; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; brother, John Runnels; cousin, Robert (Bobby) Carlson; and many nephews and nieces. He is further survived by many friends in the community, where he worked and socialized with everyone he ever meant.

Raymond was preceded in death by both his parents, Debbie and John Runnels, and Shirley Runnels (nee Blankshan) Robert "Whimy" Sessmean.

Memorial Gatherings will be held at Chapel of the Hill in Lake Geneva,WI, and a Gathering to occur down in Downers Grove, IL. This is  where he attended his early life prior to departing to Wisconsin, in which he made his new home where he started forming ongoing friendships that lasted for years to him dearly.