Raymond Michael Kort

The family of Raymond Michael Kort sadly announces the death of their brother and uncle. Ray passed away Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at the age of 79. Ray was the eldest son of the late Raymond A. and Bernadine (Valasek) Kort. He was born October 24, 1943 in Harrison Township. Ray graduated from Har-Brack High School 1961 and from Clarion University January 1966 with a B.S. degree in Education. Ray taught Chemistry for Burrell High School District for 31 years until his retirement in 1997. He was a life member of Pioneer Hose Co., Brackenridge and Citizens Volunteer Hose Co., Natrona Heights. In his younger years he was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying gardening, camping, hunting, fishing and skiing. In 1982 Ray pursued his life long interest in fire fighting and fire fighting knowledge with his attendance at the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy. He successfully completed courses at the Academy to the standards of the National Professional Qualifications System. He completed hours of formal classroom and field training in fire fighting knowledge and operations. In addition, Ray completed courses at The National Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He spent countless hours training Fire Fighters throughout Pennsylvania. He was certified to teach thirty-nine courses for the Fire Academy and taught as an Instructor Emeritus. Ray taught Chemistry of Hazardous Materials to U.S. Army Reserve Chemical Warfare Units from across the Nation. These units were certified as Hazardous Materials Technicians for the defense of our country. In the 1980’s Ray visited the Fire Department of New York City for seven days, visiting four fire stations in Manhattan. Ray always put his family first and will be remembered by all who loved him.

Ray is survived by his brother Edmond J. “Bud”” (Donna) Kort, of North Canton, OH, his sister Elaine M. (Larry) Zeiler, of New Kensington, his nieces Lauren (Craig) Fularz, of Apollo and Renae (Larry) Wagner, of New Kensington. Ray is also survived by his loving companion Elizabeth Ann Stanley-Swope of Mechanicsburg. In addition, Ray is survived by his Uncle Walt (Marian) Valasek, Aunt Dolores O’Connell and Aunt Yvonne (Ed) Jungle as well as many cousins. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by numerous relatives.

Visitation 1-4 PM Saturday in Duster Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum, 724-224-1526. Burial will be private. Pioneer Hose will hold services at 2PM. VISIT: DusterFH.com