Raymond George Antos
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Raymond George Antos, 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 in Naples, Florida surrounded by his family.
Following his successful career as an automotive industry entrepreneur, Ray's daughter Valerie had a business card made for him that said, "The best husband, father, grandfather and friend". Those few words completely summed up Ray's life. Raymond was born November 24, 1932 to Stanley and Millie Antos in Chicago, Illinois, and was an only child. He graduated from the University of Illinois in with a degree in engineering. He met his beautiful bride and wife of 68 years, Joan Solakiewicz in high school and they were later married in Chicago, Illinois. Shortly thereafter, Raymond began his lifetime career in the automotive industry, moving to Michigan, where he worked for several companies before becoming a partner in the successful Hi-Stat Industries. He ran the sales department in Bloomfield Hills until the company was sold in 1996. Ray and Joan had a fairy tale life together. Ray was the tall, handsome and silent type and Joan was movie star beautiful. They traveled the world, were legendary dancers and had fabulous parties at their homes in Orchard Lake and Naples. They forged lifetime friendships with people from all walks of life.
Ray was an avid golfer who belonged to five country clubs, Meadowbrook, Orchard Lake, Franklin Hills, Royal Poinciana and Country Club of Naples. He was known for his generosity in giving putts to his frequent guests. But Ray will most be remembered for his devotion to his family. Ray and Joan had two wonderful children, Mark and Valerie and four grandchildren, Molly Leebove, Jacob Leebove, Lauren Leebove and Blaze Antos. For close to 30 years Ray and Joan would take their children and grandchildren on amazing journeys during Christmas break to such places as India, Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. He imparted words of wisdom to his grandchildren without preaching. He was an example to them of what hard work and determination could produce in life.
Raymond is survived by his wife, Joan; daughter, Valerie (Richard) Leebove; son Mark (Lisa) Antos; grandchildren, Molly Leebove, Jacob Leebove, Lauren Leebove, and Blaze; and numerous nieces and nephews. His parents preceded Raymond in death. Burial arrangements were made by Naples Funeral Home for those wishing to sign the guest book may do so by going to naplesfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the charities of one's choice.