Sister Suzanne Sims begins the dedication with a biography written by Julie Fecher Zink, featured at the bottom of this page.

A group of sisters gather for the plaque dedication and listen to a short biography of Dr. Maras' life.

Everyone stands in silence as Sister Marie Goretti Browning reads.

Sister Michele Morek and Sister Marie Julie Fecher, relative to Dr. Maras, unveil the new plaque, as Pearl Quinn and Sister Suzanne look on.

Sister Michele and Sister Marie Julie hold the Dr. Maras plaque.

Sister Michele does the honors of hanging the plaque on the wall in the Saint Joseph Villa lobby.

Dr. Raymond J. Maras' plaque joins the wall of previous dedications.

Sister Marie Julie and Sister Philomena Cox pose for a photo after the dedication.

Biography read by Sister Suzanne at the Dedication

Dr. Raymond J. Maras had a devoted interest in the Ursuline Sisters because of connection with the family of Con and Marie Fecher. On many occasions, he would stop by Brescia or visit Sister Marie Julie Fecher when she was home in Dayton, Ohio. With a twinkle in his eye and the humility of a true gentleman, he would always produce Dayton's finest chocolates, known as Esther Price Candies, which "one could die for". As age took its toll and driving became terminated, he bestowed to the Ursulines his Chevrolet sedan. His ultimate gift was an annuity to ensure the future of the Ursuline Sisters in carrying out the mission of St. Angela Merici.

Dr. Maras, a soft-spoken professor, taught 32 years at the University of Dayton. His passion was history, with a focus on Napoleon, and his cultural and militaristic endeavors. Many lectures, articles, and a book culminated as a result of this dedication. More importantly, Ray attended Mass daily and was an active member of the Third Order of St. Francis. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he was born in to a faith-filled Polish family. They could claim a Franciscan priest, two professors, a butcher, a dentist, and two devoted sisters, who helped look after the brothers.

Always an advocate of education, Ray's teaching career was initiated at St. Benedict's College in Minnesota, Notre Dame University, University of California, Berkley, and the University of Dayton. His singleness allowed him to pursue the arts, travel, and create lasting friendships. In 2007, he gently left for heaven. May he rest in peace.

-written by Julie Fecher Zink