Raymond E. Snorek, age 78, of Rio, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2025 at Meriter Hospital in Madison. He was born September 20, 1946 in Richland Center, WI to Albert & Teresa (Schumacher) Snorek.

Born and raised in Richland Center, Ray graduated from Richland Center High School in 1965. He married the love of his life, Charlene Sykora, on December 9, 1972, in Richland Center. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared values that touched everyone around them.

Ray dedicated much of his professional life to public service, working for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation in the DMV Division as an Examiner, Recruiter, and Trainer. His career reflected his natural ability to teach, support, and uplift others.

Shortly after marrying Charlene, Ray began volunteering as a mentor with Big Brothers & Big Sisters — a role he took to heart. His deep care for others extended into every part of his life.

A devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church (St. Faustina Parish) in Pardeeville, Ray’s faith was an anchor for him. His hobbies reflected his love for the outdoors and family life: fishing, hunting, camping, playing cards, reading, gardening, and tinkering in his garage. Above all, he cherished time spent with his loved ones, especially teaching his grandson woodworking and how to make the perfect pancakes — always with a smile and a generous spirit.

He is survived by his wife Charlene (Sykora) Snorek; son Matthew Snorek of Burlington; grandson Axel; daughter, Sarah (Matt) Brunker of Wisconsin Dells; brothers, Albert Snorek (Mary) of Black Earth and James Snorek (Deidra) of Greenfield; sisters, Mary Moubry of Madison, Margaret Rose Snorek of De Pere, and Jean (Dale) Lawton of Black Earth; and seventy-seven nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Teresa (Schumacher) Snorek; brothers Cedric, Thomas, Michael, Martin and Joel; and sisters, Anne (Floyd) McCarty and Teresa (Richard) Hoffman.

"Ray was the most honest, selfless, and helpful person to family, friends, or even strangers.  Ray was always there for anyone in need, and he will be greatly missed by all those who knew him or met him!  He touched so many people's lives, in so many ways!" From his son Matthew Snorek. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, August 1, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pardeeville with Father Sanctus Ibe officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service at Church. There will be a luncheon and then inurnment at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Rio.