Funeral Set for Evanston High's Ray Aiden

Services for Ray Aiden will be Saturday at First United Methodist Church in Evanston. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., and the funeral will follow at 11 a.m.

A meal will follow the funeral at Evanston Township High School Beardsley Cafeteria. Parking will be available off Dodge Avenue in lots six and seven. Public can enter through door eight.

Aiden died after suffering a stroke a few days before, and had been in a coma, according to Chris Livatino, athletic director.

Aiden worked as equipment manager for the physical education department, athletic department and football program since 1986.

“He was a key member of countless home contests hosted by the KITS during his 25-year-career, into his retirement and right through this fall season,” Livatino wrote in an email announcing Aiden’s passing.

“On a personal note, I had the privledge to know (Aiden) since I was 14 years old and I can’t say that I ever heard him say a cross word about a coach or a kid,” Livatino said. ”He was a truly kind and gentle man who everyone enjoyed being around and sharing memories with just so they could hear his escalating laugh.”

The First United Methodist Church is located at 615 Church Street, Evanston.

Condolences can be sent to Callie Aiden at 1632 Monroe Street, Evanston, IL 60202.