Raymond Gorski

Raymond (Ray) Gorski passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 8, 2025, at eighty-five. Born in Chicago in 1940 to William and Mae Gorski, Ray was the first in his family to attend college, earning a degree in physics from Eastern Illinois University. He served in the U.S. Navy, including in Vietnam, and met his wife, Irene, while stationed at Treasure Island Naval Base. They married in 1967, with a flyover of F-4 Phantoms marking the occasion. Ray retired as a commander after twenty-four years in the Navy and Navy Reserve.

After completing his active-duty naval service, Ray joined the Bechtel Corporation and was employed there for thirty-nine years. While based in San Francisco, he participated in projects internationally. One of the assignments he was most fond of was managing the construction of a Titan IV missile launch complex for NASA at Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Ray retired from Bechtel in 2006 as a principal vice president. During his time at Bechtel, he helped secure positions for colleagues and friends who were facing layoffs or in need of employment. Ray’s family members have heard numerous accounts from former employees describing how he assisted them during periods of economic difficulty or helped them find job opportunities.

Ray’s deep sense of loyalty and generosity extended far beyond his professional achievements. He was known for his quick wit, kind heart, and steadfast loyalty to those he cared about. Friends and family often remarked on his ability to light up a room with his storytelling and gentle humor. He approached each chapter of life with gratitude, resilience, and an open hand to help others.

With the exception of a brief period in Michigan, Ray and Irene resided in Walnut Creek and Alamo. They raised three sons, all of whom graduated from Monte Vista High School and California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Ray and Irene pursued interests in travel, hosting gatherings, and spending time with their family. In 2015, they relocated to Rossmoor, where Ray frequently participated in golf and bridge. He deeply appreciated his bridge acquaintances and valued both the camaraderie and the spirit of friendly competition that the game offered.

Survived by: wife Irene Gorski (Sweeney); sons Michael, John, and Steve; daughters-in-law Kimberly, Anna, and Lindsey; grandchildren Luke, Jackson, Ziva, Noelle, Evan, Madeline, Cara, and Cole; nephews Greg, Kenny, and Doug; and several loving cousins and extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at St. Anne’s Church, 1600 Rossmoor Pkwy, Walnut Creek, in the coming days. An exact date has not been set but will be listed on the Hull’s Walnut Creek Chapel website.