Raymond F. Looker, Jr. age 77 of Springfield, OH went home to be with his Lord on January 1, 2025. He was born on April 9, 1947 to Raymond F. Looker, Sr. and Mary Louise (Moats) Looker. He was married to Shirley Ann (Frazier) in 1968 and continued in that marriage until 2016 when she went to be with the Lord.
Ray grew up on a farm in Howard, OH often working for area farmers baling hay. He enjoyed the outdoors and, since he was not allowed to get a driver’s license until he was 18, he rode his bike wherever he wanted to go. That would include the Danville Church of Christ where he was baptized on August 15, 1965. While he enjoyed playing basketball at East Knox High School, he was also an intellectual person who did well in school, especially in math. He graduated in 1965.
He enlisted in the Air Force on March 15, 1966. Completing Basic Military Training, he then continued with the Aircraft Control and Warning courses and the Seek Dawn Operation Familiarization course. Afterwards, he attended the Michigan Technological University for training in FAA Academy Pilot Weather Briefing.
He served in the 4627th Support Squadron and served in Viet Nam in 1968 as an Aircraft Control and Warning Operation and a Weapons Tech. While in the service, he received many awards and was honorably discharged from the US Air Force in 1969 having attained the rank of Sergeant He continued in the Air Force Reserves until March, 1972.
After leaving the Air Force, he was employed in various jobs such as forklift operator, oil field pumper, grinder, spray painter, and manager of a fast-food restaurant. From 1973-2007, he worked in various places as an Air Traffic Control Specialist. He then settled in a position of contracted Weather Observer at the Dayon International Airport where he worked until he recently retired.
Ray enjoyed being outside working in his garden and doing yard work. He was an avid reader of Clyde Cussler novels and collected John Deere items. Traveling and working on family vehicles were some of his enjoyments. As space permitted, his extensive train collection was set up in his basement. All those who knew him will remember his wonderful sense of humor.
He is survived by his son, Neal Looker of Canton, his grandson Andrew (Maria) Looker of Powell, his grandson Kolton Looker of Springfield, his sister Francine (Pete) Gallwitz of Walhonding, several nephews and nieces, and his aunt Betty Buehler. He was also survived by two loving and lovable cats, Derrick and Cosmos.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley (Frazier) Looker, his parents, a brother Robert Looker, and a sister Sue Williams.
A celebration of life will be held on May 17, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Milford Church of Christ, Centerburg, Ohio. Burial with military honors will follow at the Moreland Cemetery near the church.
Funeral Home: Jones-Kenny-Zechman Funeral Home
Website: jkzfh.com