Raymond Clifford Finnan

ROCKFORD - Raymond "Kip" C. Finnan, age 65, died unexpectedly on April 1, 2024 in his home due to ongoing health challenges. Ray was born to Clifford & Marlene Finnan (Mellendorf) on November 9, 1958 in Rockford, IL. Growing up, he was a huge fan of music. He was an incredibly talented drummer and as a teen played for the Phantom Regiment drum corps. Later in life he was in a rock band called Stronghold and in recent years enjoyed 'rocking out' with his grandson Will and his friends. He was a talented carpenter and single-handedly constructed unique pieces; including a beautiful deck at his home in the 1990s and a porch swing he enjoyed while living in Chattanooga, TN.

Ray enjoyed being outside, loved warm weather and watching his favorite team, the White Sox. In his most content moments he would be on his deck, on a warm summer night, watching baseball with his favorite beverage in hand. Ray was very personable, charismatic, and enjoyed telling jokes to get people to laugh. He spent over 40 years of his professional life in the car business where his social skills were a great asset. In recent years he was a ride-share driver and loved being able to talk to people and get to know them during a short ride to their destination.

He is survived by his son, Bradley Finnan; daughter, Katrina McGrath (Matthew); his five beautiful grandchildren, Elayna Galligan (20), Madeleine Finnan (16), William Finnan (13), Simone McGrath (4), Landon McGrath (2); his siblings, Sharon Rupert Finnan, Patty Perkins, Sandra Goral, Linda Goral, Sandy Lapastora, Stan Goral and Kathy Goral; and dear friend Pat Ketchum.

His request for cremation and no funeral has been honored. A Celebration of Life, hosted by his daughter, will be on Saturday, April 20th from 11am-2pm at Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie Street, Downtown Rockford.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial gift to the Rosecrance Foundation by visiting Rosecrance.org/give or sending a check payable to "The Rosecrance Foundation" to: Rosecrance Foundation, 1021 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61107 – please note that it is in memory of Raymond Finnan. If you or someone you know is struggling with drugs or alcohol, please reach out. With the right support, a better life is possible.

www.rockfordfunerals.com