IL SR0910

Ray Soden of Wood Dale, former Illinois State Senator, passed away on July 22, 2012, at age 88.

Served in the United States Navy during World War II as a Sonarman 3rd Class on the USS Claxton, participating in the invasion of North Africa and Pacific Theater operations; received European and Asiatic Campaign Medals and 7 Battle Stars.

Worked for Illinois Bell Telephone Company for 35 years until retirement in 1982, then served on the DuPage County Board from 1982 to 1992 and as president of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County from 1988 to 1992.

Appointed to the Illinois Senate in 2003 following former Senate President James "Pate" Philip's retirement and served on the Senate Revenue Committee for 20 months.

Active in veterans' affairs as a lifelong member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, serving as National Commander-in-Chief from 1973 to 1974; also performed as an accomplished singer on the National Barn Dance program on WLS-AM radio.