Obituary of Raymond Maldonado

     Raymond Maldonado (61) of Utica, passed away unexpectedly into eternal peace on April 27, 2022 to be with our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.

     One of five children, Raymond was born in Utica, New York on September 1, 1960.  He was predeceased by his parents Ramon and Ramona (Quiles) Maldonado.  Raymond received his education in Utica schools.  He was formerly united in marriage to Josette (Barbero) Maldonado.  Left to mourn are his son and daughter-in-law, Raymond Jr. and Jennifer Maldonado; two cherished grandsons, Raymond and Anthony; sister, Nidia Gonzalez of Connecticut; sister and brother-in-law, Marion and Kevin Brevetti of Connecticut; brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Syndi Maldonado of Florida, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was also predeceased by his sister, Sylvia Vega of Puerto Rico.

     Raymond was raised in Utica by his parents who migrated to the area from Puerto Rico (La Isla del Encanto) back in the 1950s.  Their unconditional love for Raymond was second to none and he adored them.  Raymond was proud of his roots.  He and his siblings uplifted one another.  Raymond shared a special bond with his brother, Richard.  Growing up, they always had each other's back and, at times, were inseparable.  Their weightlifting competitions with friends and acquaintances in the neighborhood were memorable.  Together, “Ray and Rich” were a force to be reckoned with.  Raymond embraced “the outdoors” and loved fishing with family & friends to say the least.  His favorite personally-owned cars were a Plymouth Sattelite and Ford Mustang Mach 1.  Raymond loved his family, especially his son more than anything and revered the time they spent together.  He was healthy  before suffering a substantial injury while working as a Machinist at Partlow on Campion Rd in New Hartford.  This unfortunate and unforeseen life-changing event led him into battle with mental illness for the remainder of his life.  He fought like a champion by eventually gaining the upper-hand on his affliction, which resulted in some special shared memories with family that will always be cherished.  His first-born grandson has expressed he will truly miss the good times he had with “Grandpa” (especially going out for breakfast).  Through Raymond, GOD proved to family that prayer is so powerful and to never give up hope.  Approximately 4 years ago, Raymond's mental illness intensified which also led to a deterioration in physical health that continued on until the very end of his days.  For others out there suffering similar disorders, Raymond's family has a message for you and that is:  “We love you.  We pray you see better days ahead and find peace with much happiness.  It's OK to accept help and care.  May GOD protect and bless you into eternity.” 

     Raymond's family finds it imperative to recognize the Catholic Charities staff for their compassion and care throughout this journey.  We would especially like to thank John Donato, who is an extraordinary person from the agency, for always going above and beyond to help Raymond.  There are no words to adequately express our sincere appreciation for John and his dedication for many years.   

     In lieu of flowers, please consider our local Catholic Charities in Raymond's memory.

     Visitation for family and friends is Saturday, May 7, 2022 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica, followed by a private memorial service at 3:00 p.m. for family and close friends at the conclusion of visitation.  He will be laid to rest with his mother in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica.