Raymond John LaFlash was born July 23rd, 1984 in Rockford Illinois. He was born to Sheldon and Jeanne LaFlash. His siblings are Jody, Samantha, John and Elizabeth LaFlash. As a child Raymond, "Ray" was very creative. He aspired to be a vampire, just like Count Dracula, because he had sharp teeth. He also aspired to become a spy. He enjoyed magic card games, bowling and Frisbee golf. As a student in high school Raymond earned good grades and excelled at art and woodworking projects.

Prior to joining the military, Raymond worked at Ponderosa Restaurant and Melody Gardens in Marshfield, WI. Ray enlisted into the Army because he wanted to serve his country as his Grandpa did and also to help with college expenses. He enlisted into the Army on August 16th, 2002. He was entered into C Company 2nd battalion of the 58th Infantry Division. He went to Fort Benning Georgia for Basic Training.

Raymond was out on a run when he collapsed from heat stroke. He had to be hospitalized in Augusta, Georgia. Many complications proceeded and he was transported via medical helicopter to a facility in Charleston, South Carolina for a liver transplant. He never recovered due to these complications. He died on Sunday, October 13th, 2002 with his mother at his side.

He is very missed by all of his family and friends. Ray enjoyed playing with his nieces and nephews. He was a very loving person who gave good hugs. He stood 6'2" tall, and had deep brown eyes and hair.

"I had a dream after Ray passed on, and in my dream Ray met my father, his grandpa, John. They went fishing. He was happy telling stories."

Jeanne LaFlash, Raymond's Mother

Written By:

Kim Becker

East Junior High School