Raymond Francis Pauken

Raymond Francis (“Ray”) Pauken, 90, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Bexley, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family.  Ray lived a long life devoted to family and community, teaching and learning, generosity and humor, and music and love.

Ray was born on August 4, 1935, in Maumee, Ohio, to Paul and Mary Pauken. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Patricia (Ryan); his parents, Paul and Mary; and his brothers Jim, Dick, Ken, and Carl. Ray is survived by his three children: Michael (Marc Harshbarger), Chicago, IL; Patrick, Perrysburg, OH; and Molly (Desi) Steinbrook, Bexley, OH; grandchildren Ryan Steinbrook (fiancé Max Grossman) and Jordan Steinbrook; brother Marty Pauken (Jacky) and sisters Mary Louise (Bob, deceased) Tiemann and Connie (Red) Williams; sister-in-law Katherine Wooley, Charlotte, NC; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many other extended family members and friends. A long-time member of St. Patrick Church and St. Catharine Church in Columbus, Ray taught for Columbus Public Schools for 34 years. He was a graduate of Ohio State University, where he completed an undergraduate degree and post-graduate coursework. Ray was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War and participated in an Honor Flight.

Ray was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Columbus, American Legion, Shamrock Club, Columbus and Franklin County teachers credit union, and the Central Ohio Hot Jazz Society.  Ray played the banjo for most of his life (hence, the banjo tattooed on his knee). He played a variety of local and statewide venues for over 50 years, including 25 years at Plank’s Bier Garten (with John Farley). He co-founded the Bexley Jam Band, performing for about 20 years at Johnson’s Ice Cream and other events in Bexley.

During his long career as an educator, Ray received several teaching awards, including from the Freedom Foundation and State PTA. In 1973, he was named Ohio Teacher of the Year. He was inducted into the Columbus Senior Musicians’ Hall of Fame in 2009.

The family wishes to express gratitude to Zusman Hospice. Friends may call Tuesday 4-8 p.m. at EGAN-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 403 E. BROAD ST. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday 11 a.m. at St. Catharine Church, 500 South Gould Road. Burial St. Joseph Cemetery. Friends who wish may contribute in his memory to Honor Flight Columbus.  

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