Raymond L. Zawacki, 77, of Fords, passed peacefully, but unexpectedly, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at the RWJ University Hospital in New Brunswick.

He was born in Ridgeway, PA, on November 16, 1946, was formerly of Edison, and had resided in Fords for the last 54 years.

He proudly served his country as a Vietnam Veteran in the US Navy on board the USS Ticonderoga.

He retired after forty years with the American Legion where he was a Service Officer and then as Adjutant.  He was then appointed to the office of Deputy Commissioner of Military and Veterans Affairs for the State of NJ for which he served an additional ten years.

Raymond belonged to many organizations, including, the Naval Order of the US, Anavicus Purple Hat, of the American Legion,
He served as secretary of the NJ Boys State, He was a member of the Masonic Lodge # 8 of Trenton, a life member of the American Legion Clara Barton Post # 324  &  Sons of The  American Legion, was an American Legion Insurance Trustee, and a member of  the Big T Association,  USS Ticonderoga.

He was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Julia Zawacki, his siblings, Leo Zawacki, Jr. and Donna Marie Zawacki.

Raymond leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Joanna (Gosk) Zawacki, his beloved daughter, Michelle Koenig (& Matthew) of East Stroudsburg, PA and Shaun Zawacki of Fords, and his 2 cherished grandchildren, Gage Matthew and Isabella Faith.

Visitation will be on Thursday May 16, 2024 from 3-7 pm at the Flynn and Son Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave. Fords NJ 08863.

A graveside service will take place on Friday, May 17, 2024, starting at 12:30 pm at the Brig. Gen. William C Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown, North Hanover Twp. NJ.

If desired, in lieu of flowers contributions, may be made in his memory to:  Autism Speaks or to St. Jude.org.