Raymond T. Kest

Raymond T. "Ray" Kest, age 72, of Toledo, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2022 at the Franciscan Care Center. He was born on December 13, 1949 to Newell and Marian (Haggerty) Kest in Toledo, OH. Ray graduated from Bowsher High School where he was class president his junior and senior year and went on to get Masters in Business Administration at The University of Toledo where he was President of his Theta Chi Fraternity. Ray also honorably served in the U.S. Army Reserves in the 983rd Division of Engineers. He served as Lucas County Treasurer for 16 years, Lucas County Commissioner and Toledo City Councilman. Ray was a CPA/Consultant in Ohio and Florida for 44 years. After moving to Florida, he spent 10 years at Keiser University as Professor of Business, and he was promoted to Program Chair of the Business Accounting Department. While living in Florida, he received his Doctorate Degree in Philosophy in 2007 from Walden University. Ray was also a member of the Toledo Old Newsboys Association. He was also very instrumental in the financial concept plan for the Toledo Mud Hens Stadium, known as 5th/3rd Field. Ray was an avid sports fan, and he enjoyed playing tennis and golf. He loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. Ray had a huge heart and would do anything for anyone. He enjoyed social events and being with friends. Ray looked forward to a fine wine or a good glass of scotch. He would want you to remember his smile, spirit and caring nature.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Brian Kest; and son, Eric Major Kest. Left to cherish Ray's memory are his loving children, Aaron Raphael Kest and Lindsay Rae Kest; grandchildren, Ty, and Reylin Durham and A.J. Kest; brother, David (Inge) Kest; sister-in-law, Shirley Kest; nephews, Michael and Nicholas Kest; and many other family members and dear friends.

The family will receive guests on Friday, September 16, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home – West Sylvania Chapel, 3655 King Rd., Toledo, OH (419-392-9500) with Memorial Services beginning at 12:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Inurnment will be private at a later date at Historic Woodlawn Cemetery.

To view Ray's service via Live Stream, please click here.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Toledo Old News Boys Association or the Fallen Trades Memorial, 1600 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605.

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