Raymond O. Bodicky

Raymond O. Bodicky passed away peacefully at home in Oakville, Missouri on April 26 surrounded by love and family.

Born on May 5, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri; Ray was the son of Andrew and Margarita (née Duenhaupt) Bodicky. He was named after his grandfather, Otto Duenhaupt, with whom he shared a birthday. Ray graduated from Cleveland High School in the Class of 1956 and was accepted into the University of Missouri, where he joined the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. However, Ray’s passions and priorities led him down a different path, and in 1958 he volunteered for the draft.

Ray served in the U.S. Army with pride, traveling to several countries before being stationed in Panama—a posting he often expressed gratitude for, as it kept him from a combat zone. He was honorably discharged in 1964 with the rank of Sergeant.

After returning home, Ray worked for four years as an inspector on the Gravois Creek sewer project with the Metropolitan Sewer District. He later joined Day-Brite Lighting Company/Emerson Electric, where he played a key role in the development of a unique sound testing environment known as the “Reverent Room.” This role ignited his passion for solving complex problems and working on scientifically challenging projects.

His true calling came when he joined Sherwood Medical, where he spent over 30 years advancing healthcare technology. He retired as Manager of Advanced Design, having earned more than 25 U.S. patents. Ray was part of the innovative team behind the “AngioSeal” device, which won the prestigious Medical Device of the Year Award.

Ray had two sons, Mark and Scott, from his first marriage. In 1973, he married Carol J. Hoffman, gaining two stepchildren, Mike and Jacqi, and beginning a loving 40-year partnership. Together, they traveled the world, enjoyed countless family adventures, and dedicated themselves to charitable causes, particularly those supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children.

A dedicated Freemason, Ray became a 3rd Degree Mason in 1966 at Meridian Lodge #2 and later attained the 32nd Degree in the Scottish Rite. He was an active Moolah Shriner and served as President of the Arab Patrol in 1978.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Carol, and his daughter-in-law Lori (née Grossman) Bodicky. He is survived by his children:

Mark Bodicky (Laura) of St. Joseph, Missouri, Scott Bodicky of St. Louis, Missouri, Mike Budak (Heather) of Bloomington, Illinois; Jacqi Sangster (Rick) of Sugar Hill, Georgia.

Ray also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Ryan Bodicky (McKenna), Drew Bodicky (Adam), Kathryn Bodicky, Nicholas Bodicky (Nicole), Alexandra Richter (Ethan), Blake Sangster, and Alex Sangster; and four great-grandchildren: Olive Ryann Bodicky, Louie James Bodicky, Mary Lorene Richter and Kynlee Marie Richter. He is also survived by his brothers, Andrew Bodicky and Norman Bodicky (Lynn), as well as a niece and nephew, all of St. Louis, Missouri.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons Funeral Home on Lemay Ferry Road. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A private inurnment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at a later date.

Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family suggests the Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Ray lived a rich and meaningful life, defined by love for his family, a passion for innovation, and a deep commitment to service and charity. He will be remembered for his kind heart, curious mind, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.