Ray Ruehl, of Port Washington, passed away surrounded by his loving family in the morning hours of Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Lawlis Family Hospice in Mequon. He was 91 years old.

Ray was born in Milwaukee on February 6, 1933, the son of Raymond and Annette (nee Seifert) Ruehl. As a young man, Ray developed his love for film and art, and realized what adventures were out in the world.

Ray was a dedicated educator who earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Drake University and went on to get master's degree from Ohio University. He left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of countless students and colleagues throughout his career. Ray's passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom as he shared his knowledge of art history and film history with generations of young minds. His commitment to education and his ability to inspire others will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ray was a fearless adventurer into places unknown. His travels included visits to many cultural sites around the world, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Great Pyramids, Mount Kilimanjaro, and was chased out of Beirut during the civil war.

Ray is survived by his nieces and nephews: Ginny (Kate Kuhn) Lackovic, Monica (Nancy Owens) Ferguson, and Mark (Jill) Lackovic, his brother-in-law Milan Lackovic, and his best friend Kitty. He is further survived by many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and many committed and caring friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Annette, and his sister Virginia "Ginny" Lackovic.

Funeral services celebrating Ray's life will take place on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 5:30 PM at the Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, with visitation preceding the services at the funeral home from 3:30 PM until the time of services.

He will be laid to rest next to his parents at Forest Home Cemetery in Milwaukee.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Forest Home Historical Preservation Association (https://foresthomecemetery.com/forest-home-historic-preservation-association-inc/).

The Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington is honored to serve the Ruehl family. Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com