Raymond L. Giovannelli age 82, Retired Chief of Niles Police Department; beloved husband of the late Phyllis B. Giovannelli; loving father of Laura Giovannelli (Jerry Kloberdanz), Scott (Mary) Giovannelli, and Shelley (Rich) Fallon; dearest grandfather of Tony (Maddie), Joey (Melinda), Michael, Dominick, Alisa, Max, Macy, and Joe; cherished great grandfather of Liam and Luca; fond brother of Charles Giovannelli (Judy).  Visitation Thursday September 14, 2023, from 4 PM until 8 PM at the Skaja Terrace Funeral Home, 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. Funeral service Friday 9 AM to St. John Brebeuf  Church for 10AM mass. Interment Maryhill Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorials to Tunnel of Towers Foundation
Funeral info: 847-966-7302

Ray grew up in Chicago and Niles, working at the family bakery. He served in the US Army's First Infantry Division, aka, The Big Red One. In 1965 Ray & Phyllis were married and raised their children, Laura, Scott, and Shelley in Niles with kindness, respect, and a family first mantra.  Ray was a police officer in Niles for thirty-five years.  He rose in rank over the years and retired as Chief of Police.  Ray worked tirelessly to provide for his family, picking up part time and side jobs whenever available, even starting up a window washing company.  Ray earned a bachelor's degree from Northeastern University, and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. Ray was always a leader and volunteered his time coaching, school board, entertaining, etc.  As a community leader, Ray travelled to Italy, Greece, and Ireland with Niles Sister Cities. Although Ray and Phyllis moved to Texas for warmer weather, Ray often called his family and friends to check in, never saying goodbye but "talk to you later."   Rest easy Ray, you are home.