On September 24, 2025, Stanley Ray Rotenberger passed away at the age of 95 years. Born May 2, 1930 in Quakertown, PA, he was predeceased by his loving wife, Earlene after 30 years of marriage. He is survived by his six children who are: Christine and her husband Blue; Barbara; Stan and his wife Janet; Maryann; John and his wife Beverly; and Bob and his wife Michelle; twenty-one grandchildren; twenty-eight great grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.
Ray was a pioneer in the air boating industry. He designed the Palm Beach hull and was instrumental in designing the cage for the engine/propeller which has become a safety requirement.
He was also a conservationist who fought to preserve the Everglades for future generations. The State of Florida even named a Preserve in his honor. Ray was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed Mother Nature’s natural beauty to the fullest.
A kind hearted person who never met a stranger, Ray would stop to render assistance regardless of the situation. A true example of a very generous man, Ray will be sorely missed.
A funeral service for Ray will be held on Saturday, October 18th, 10:00 A.M. at Citrus Missionary Baptist Church, 6690 Turner Camp Rd., Inverness, FL 34453. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to VITAS Hospice.
3 Comments
Grandpa Ray you were the legend. One of the best men I’ve ever known. Your stories and your kindness would make us stay for hours listening to you. You may be gone from our sight but you will always be in our hearts. Never forgotten. Love Eddie, Laure, Amanda and Chase.💜
Dad, you will be greatly missed. You taught me a lot in life. You were the kindest person I’ve ever known would do anything for anybody it’s gonna be hard from now on without you around.
Ray was one of the most interesting men that I have known. His stories about the early days of airboat racing and life in the glades were legendary. There has been many a lost hunter rescued or pointed back to a safe path by Ray. He will be greatly missed by our community and his friends.
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