Ray Szmanda facts for kids

Raymond Jack "Ray" Szmanda, Sr. was a well-known American radio and television announcer. Many people in the Midwestern United States recognized his voice. He was famous for being the main spokesperson for Menards stores. He worked with Menards for more than 20 years. Ray Szmanda was born on June 22, 1926, and he passed away on May 6, 2018.

Ray Szmanda's Early Life

Ray Szmanda was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. When he was a young man, he joined the United States Navy. He served his country during World War II.

Ray Szmanda's Career

Ray Szmanda learned his skills at the American Institute of the Air. He also took writing classes. He studied at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

He started working as an announcer in 1951. He worked for radio and television stations. In 1958, he began to work for himself as a freelancer. From 1959 to 1978, he ran his own school. It was called the Trans-American School of Broadcasting. This school was in his hometown of Wausau, Wisconsin.

His most famous job began in 1976. This is when he started working with Menards. He was the voice and face of their advertisements. He was a regular part of their ads until he retired in 1998. Even after retiring, he still made a few ads for the company starting in 1999.

Ray Szmanda also appeared in a science fiction movie from the 1970s. It was called The Alpha Incident. He also hosted a local TV show in Wausau. This show was called High Quiz Bowl.

Ray Szmanda's Family Life

Ray Szmanda lived in Antigo, Wisconsin. He had a big family. He had four sons and three daughters. His wife, Maxine, passed away in 1999. His son, Ray Jr., died in 2002. Ray Szmanda's great-nephew is Eric Szmanda. Eric is an actor. He is best known for playing Greg Sanders on the TV show CSI.

Ray Szmanda's Passing

Ray Szmanda passed away on May 6, 2018. He was 91 years old. He died from pneumonia, heart problems, and issues from a fall.