Raymond J. Kralik

Raymond J. Kralik, 50 of Sorento, IL passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday May 23, 2026. Ray was born on April 6, 1976, in Litchfield, IL to Steve Kralik and Marilyn (Carter) Kralik and his father precedes him in death. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents: James A. Slagel, John R. and Lee A. Kralik; his stepfather, Jimmy A. Slagel; his infant cousin, Erin Spinner; his aunt, Naomi Coleman and his uncle, Ron Slagel.

Ray grew up in Hillsboro, IL and had a happy childhood. At age 21, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and lived with the debilitating effects of the disease for the remainder of his life. Sadly, his illness stole his innocence and consumed his life.

Ray always loved animals and cared deeply for the pets he had growing up. He never met a dog he didn’t love. His favorite holiday was the fourth of July, and he looked forward to having fireworks every year. In his younger years, he enjoyed spending summer weekends at Rocky Ford in Coffeen, IL fishing with his father and grandfather. He had a love for woodworking and classic cars, especially his Pontiac GTO. While Ray’s disease prevented him from trusting his family, we all loved him deeply and will miss him terribly.

Left to cherish his memory is his mother, Marilyn Slagel; his grandmother, Jean (Mike) Greek; his sister, Elle (Frank) Heiligenstein; his aunts, Gina (Norman) Kimme and Cookie Kralik; his great-aunts, Lucille Crews and Dot Thacker; his great-uncle, Charles (Ada) Thacker; his cousins: Brandi Crawford, Kimberly (Larry) Bingham, Luke (Karyn) Spinner, Kevin Spinner, Stacy (Clark) Cameron, Jeff (Chasity) Revisky, Tanya (the late Art) Giller, Reese Crawford, Payton Crawford, Justin Revisky, Josh (Ann) Revisky, Kyle Lewsader, Morgan (Josh) Thrasher, Addison Spinner, Andrew “Drew” Spinner, Sarah McDonald, DeVon McDonald, Rozzalynn McDonald, Torrie McDonald, Lexy Cameron and Carly Cameron, DMD in addition to extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday June 8, 2026, from 9:30am-11:00am at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 216 E. Tremont St. Hillsboro, IL 62049. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00am with Fr. Daniel L. Willenborg, celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Moriah Cemetery in rural Coffeen, IL.

Memorial contributions in memory of Raymond J. Kralik may be directed to NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) online at www.namiillinois.org or by mail to NAMI 101 N. Wacker Dr. 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.