A teacher, father, and friend, Ray Burtner will be remembered for his compassionate nature. He was deeply invested in his students’ growth and celebrated their achievements with the same pride he had for his children, science teacher Tiz Lambert said.

“[Ray] was structured and had high expectations, but it all came from a place of deeply caring about students and wanting them to succeed,” Lambert said. “Students respected him because he was consistent [and] fair. He was endlessly proud of his two incredible kids, whom he talked about constantly with so much love.”

In January of 2005, Ray started working at LT in the Special Education department. He taught science classes, often as part of the co-teaching program. On Oct. 6, Ray passed away.

“Working with [him] was one of the most grounding professional relationships I’ve ever had,” Lambert said. “He kept things real, never sugar-coated what needed to be said, and somehow always managed to deliver advice that felt both practical and comforting. I still have text messages from him talking me through tough moments at work, offering support, perspective, and his optimistic belief that we’d figure things out. He brought a unique blend of seriousness and warmth that helped shape a healthier, more connected department.”

At the start of the 2020-2021 school year, Special Education Division Chair Melissa Moore began working at LT, and Ray was a teacher in her division. They met for the first time on Zoom during remote learning in the spring of 2020.

“He was willing to talk with anyone, not just about surface things but about his passions and values, and he wanted to learn the same about others,” Moore said. “He never shied away from a conversation or chance to connect, no matter someone’s role. He was authentic, humble, and genuinely valued human connection without pretense. Over the last few weeks, it has been incredible to hear stories and memories shared by colleagues across the school and members of the larger LT community.”

When Special Education teacher Jack Becker was 12 years old, Ray started dating his sister, and they ended up becoming brothers-in-law. After graduating from DePaul University in 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in communication, Ray went back to school at the University of Illinois-Chicago and received a Master’s degree in Special Education. Becker was a senior at LT the same year that Ray began. After Becker later graduated from Illinois State University, they ended up working in the same department—much to the mutual enjoyment and bewilderment of the students, Becker said. 

“I thought [Ray] was the coolest,” Becker said. “[He] was a huge part of my life outside of work. I didn’t have a big brother growing up, but [he] filled that role for me from the time I was a kid. We were very close friends and shared so many experiences, from family trips to just hanging out and listening to music. [He] loved music, sports, [and] cooking.”

Ray was also known for his passion for the outdoors, Lambert said. 

“[He] loved the outdoors more than anyone I know,” Lambert said. “Whether it was hiking, biking, or just being outside with his dog, nature was his happy place.”

Ray and Lambert were hired in the same year; they taught across the hall from each other for 20 years and would check in with each other while monitoring the halls during passing periods.

“One of my favorite memories of [Ray] is our tradition of alternating who hosted our department’s end-of-year celebration,” Lambert said. “He took grilling very seriously, and it was always hilarious to watch him ride his bike over with his entire grilling setup strapped to his back. It summed him up perfectly: practical, no-nonsense, totally dedicated, and somehow still incredibly funny without trying. I will always remember those gatherings and the heart he brought to our department.”

Among many things, Ray offered dependable advice on a variety of topics, whether it be college decisions, parenting, or adopting a pet, Lambert said. “Don’t worry, it will all work out,” was one of his guiding phrases.

“He taught me so much and helped shape the person I am today,” Becker said. “I miss him.”