Raymond "Ray" Bottazzi, 88, a longtime resident of Catasauqua, Whitehall Manor and Traditions of Hanover, died peacefully Jan. 29, 2013.

Born in Northampton, Mass., he was a son of the late Carmine and Assunta (Pignatello) Bottazzi.

He and his wife,Anna Mae (Hopkins) Bottazzi, were married 48 years at the time of her death on May 1, 2003.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Hokendauqua.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II with the 12th Fighter Squadron in the South Pacific, and was honored with five Bronze Stars for his bravery.

He returned home and worked for Mack Trucks for many years on the line and in the maintenance department of 5C until he retired.

He was a life member of the former Italian Club of Allentown, the Charotin Fire Company, and the Belmont bowling and golf leagues.

His survivors include nieces Rosemary B. Eibach and her husband, Bill, and Judy Braniff; nephews Michael Bottazzi and his wife, Ellen, and Jerome Bottazzi; sisters-in-law Jeanette and Rose Bottazzi, great-nieces and nephew; and great-great-nieces and nephews; friend and caregiver Nancy Riker.

He was predeceased by brothers Aldo, Alvin "Tinker" and Joseph, as an infant.

Contributions may be made to the church, 3005 S. Front St., Whitehall, PA 18052.

Arrangements made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.