Raymond Lischka, a longtime resident of the Lompoc Valley, died Friday, October 29, 2021, at the age of 90.

Born in Hartford, Wisconsin on June 21, 1931, he enlisted in the Air Force in 1948.  He served for 30 years, 8 months in radio, electronics and missile career fields, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant in 1978. His overseas tours included service in Korea during the 'police action,' Greenland, and a family-accompanied tour in Germany. He subsequently worked for Piper Aircraft in Santa Maria and Lockheed-Martin Corp. at Vandenberg AFB.

Ray married Caroline Baker in 1949, and they had four sons: Dennis, Terry, Ron and Dave. They were married for over 65 years.

Ray was a past president of the Lompoc Valley Pilot's Association, was active with amateur radio operation and was an emergency coordinator with the Amateur Radio Emergency Services, ARES.

Ray was predeceased by his wife Caroline in 2015, sister Beverly, and brother James.  He is survived by his sons Dennis Lischka and Terry Lischka of Littleton, Colorado, Ronald Lischka of Lompoc,  David Lischka of Austin, Texas, granddaughters Carey Lischka of Crofton, Maryland, Erin Lischka of Yucca Valley, California, Brianne Collins of Gerrardstown, West Virginia, grandson Daniel Lischka of Palmdale, California, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandson, nieces and nephews.

Special appreciation goes to the management and staff at Fountain Square Assisted Living, Lompoc Skilled Nursing, and Assisted Hospice Care.

The visitation will be from 10 to 11am on Friday, November 5, followed by the funeral service at 11am at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.  The interment will be in the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery. A reception will follow.