Carl J. Raven

Carl J. Raven passed away Sunday, August 15, 2021 at the age of 79 in Milwaukee, WI. Cherished husband of Cheryl for 55 years of marriage. Devoted father of Laurel (Rick) and Leah (Peter). Proud Grandfather of Maxwell and Emma. Loving son of the late Joseph and Florence Krampf. Dear brother to Craig Krampf and treasured cousin to Marge. Further survived by the "Walczak cousins," nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, colleagues, and fellow musicians. Proud alumni of Marquette University High School and Marquette University. Licensed Clinical Psychologist working most of his career at Waukesha County Health and Human Services for 35 years. Awarded the Mental Health Professional of the Year (2006) by the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Waukesha County. Drummer, bass guitarist, accordionist, saxophonist, pianist, and vocalist. Carl has worked in a variety of mostly Milwaukee bands as a performer, arranger, and composer for over 60 years. Leader of the Hi Lites, Del Reys, and more recently Collective Neurosis with creative bandmates Frank, Henry, and Rob. And when he wasn’t playing music, he was listening to Dr. Sushi’s Free Jazz BBQ on WMSE. An avid reader and writer himself, Carl published both fiction and poetry. He loved the arts exploring painting, photography, film, and drama. Carl was the life of the party, and we will miss his joyful laugh, wit, and humor. He shared his love of music and could always be counted on to bring his accordion to family celebrations. He especially enjoyed playing music with his grandchildren, his favorite trio. The room was always a happier place when he was there. Memorial service to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Carl would say --spread kindness, promote peace and justice, and most of all love and accept your fellow humans and make this world a better place.