Raymond Gralewski

Raymond Gralewski, 90, of Grant Avenue, Amsterdam, NY; passed away peacefully Monday morning December 28, 2015 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Amsterdam, NY on May 8, 1925, he was the son of Boniface and Violet Malewska Gralewski.

After graduating high school he joined the Marine Corps serving his country from June 23, 1942 to June 23, 1946. He then joined the Air Force in February of 1947, serving for three years. He was wounded during the campaigns at Guam and again at Iwo Jima and was in the campaign at Bougainville. Ray received the Purple Heart with a star for the wounds received at Guam and Iwo Jima.

Ray returned from service in 1951 and attended Williamsport Technical Institute for over four years studying to be an office Machine technician and joined Remington Office Machines in Albany. He worked there for 27 years before retiring due to health problems.

He married Ramona Breslin DiBartolomeo in 1955 at St. Michael’s Church officiated by the Rev. Joseph C. Beck

Ray was the past State of New York Commander for the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Commander of Henry F. Schotte Post 118 of the Purple Heart. Ray was a member of many VA organizations including Amvets, VFW, and Post 701 American Legion.

He enjoyed driving his 65 Ford Mustang. In retirement, Ray and Ramona traveled to Spain, Mexico, Colorado, Bahamas and Ireland, but camping with his family and grandchildren on Sacandaga Lake was his favorite vacation.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ramona and children, Michael (Gina) DiBartolomeo, Colleen DiBartolomeo DeMaria, Ray (Karen) Gralewski and Tim Gralewski (Carol Stearns), grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ray was also predeceased by his brother, Hank, sisters, Sophie, Regina, Aurelia and daughter, Mona Lisa Di Bartolomeo.

Funeral services will be held Thursday morning December 31, 2015 at 10:30 at the Riley Mortuary, Inc., 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY; followed at 11:15 by a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 39 St. John Street, Amsterdam, NY

Relatives and friends may call Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 at the Riley Mortuary.

American Legion Post 701 members are requested to meet on Wednesday at 5:30 at the Riley Mortuary.

Interment with full military honors will take place at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Amsterdam.

Memorial gifts in Ray’s name may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, P.O. Box 699, Amsterdam, NY 12010.