Raymond J. Shively 1935-2025

Born June 12, 1935, in Youngstown, Ray was the son of Willis J. and Beatrice Welch Shively.

He grew up in Austintown and graduated from Austintown Fitch High School in 1953, where he played both baseball and basketball. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Case Institute of Technology in 1957 and worked as a mechanical engineer for E.W. Bliss Co. and Wean United.

In his early years, Ray was an excellent bowler, participating in many leagues throughout the Mahoning Valley. At Grand Lanes, he met the love of his life, Eileen Reber. They married in 1964 and shared 58 wonderful years together until Eileen’s passing in 2023.

Ray lived in Austintown for 87 years before moving to Westlake to be near his son. A devoted father, he coached his son’s baseball teams at the Little League, Pony League and Colt League levels for many years.

He and Eileen were enthusiastic YSU football and basketball fans, well-known in the tailgating lot and often traveled with friends to away games.

Ray enjoyed a good pickup basketball game, good music, great food, lively company and a fine bottle of wine. A lifelong reader, he was rarely without a stack of books close at hand. He also had a deep love for dogs and cherished the many who were part of his life over the years.

Ray is survived by his son, Raymond J. Shively Jr. (Mary) of North Olmsted; his dear sister, Elaine Shively of Austintown; and his aunt, Kay Welch.

There are no services at this time.

Arrangements were by Busch Funeral Home, Westlake, www.buschcares.com.

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