Salonen, Raymond S.

June 18, 1924 - August 22, 2006

Oakland Tribune, The (CA) - Saturday, August 26, 2006

A resident of Walnut Creek died at the age of 82. Born June 18, 1924, in Berkeley, he was the son of John and Greta Salonen, both emigrants from Finland. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gloria Burgan Salonen, and his sister Elizabeth Gustafson of Hamilton, Montana. 

He is also survived by his four children, daughters, Kathleen Yowell and Karen Anderson of Chowchilla; son, Kenneth Salonen and wife, Leslie of El Cerrito, and son, Keith Salonen and wife, Donna of Ukiah. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. 

When Raymond was a young boy, the only language spoken at home was Finnish. The first time he heard English was when his older sister Elizabeth brought it home from school, and he was a quick learner. He graduated from Berkeley High School. 

During World War II, Raymond enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed at Pearl Harbor. Here he honed skills learned in high school in the trade of printing, which became his career. He worked briefly as a printer for the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. In 1949 Raymond began a 40-year career as a printer for the Oakland Tribune, retiring in 1989. He was a proud member of the International Typographical Union. His work ethic has had a great influence on all of his children. 

Raymond and Gloria moved to Walnut Creek in 1950, wanting to raise their family in a quiet, rural setting. He had fond childhood memories of going on picnics with his parents in the Walnut Creek countryside. Ray and Gloria have never moved from this home. 

An avid baseball fan, Raymond enjoyed trips with family to see the San Francisco Giants play throughout the years. He remained active with the Diablo Bowling Association. Enjoying all sports, Ray was a charter member of Sports Illustrated. He was also a member of the United Kaleva Finnish Brothers and Sisters, Lodge #21. 

Following a stroke, Raymond received wonderful hospice care in his final days at the Bruns House. 

He is remembered by friends and family as an all-around nice guy, reliable, friendly, patient, and beloved by his family. He was especially proud that all four of his children graduated from college. 

A graveside service will be held Monday, August 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Oakmont Memorial Park in Lafayette, followed by a memorial gathering at D.V.R.A., 2515 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek.