VJ “Kelly” Rayunas

VJ “Kelly” Rayunas, 65, of Phoenix, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 28, 1960, in Waukegan, Kelly lived a life full of laughter, hard work, loyalty, and unforgettable stories.

Kelly was the beloved husband of Shaneice Rayunas for 43 wonderful years — a love story built on friendship, devotion, and plenty of adventures along the way. He graduated from Mundelein High School and later built a successful career in real estate, proudly owning and operating Kelly Real Estate Services since 1989. He had a gift for connecting with people and never met a stranger for long.

From an early age, Kelly loved cowboy hats and boots so much that friends affectionately nicknamed him “Cowboy,” a name that stayed with him throughout his life. Whether dressed for work or relaxing with family, there was always a little cowboy spirit about him.

Kelly was known for his incredible craftsmanship and talent for remodeling projects. If something in the house needed fixing, building, or “improving,” he was on it. His projects helped transform the family home into a warm and welcoming place where countless parties, holidays, cookouts, and late-night conversations were shared with family and friends.

He loved making people laugh, telling stories, and enjoying life’s simple moments. Kelly could light up a room with his humor, stubbornness, quick wit, and larger-than-life personality. He was the kind of man who would help anyone in need.

Kelly loved the outdoors and enjoyed skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. He always had to have the biggest, baddest snowblower on the block to rival the neighbors. Warmer weather often found him exploring the trails of Lake County on his bicycle. He also had a passion for motorcycles and treasured taking road trips throughout Wisconsin with his wife.

Above all else, Kelly loved his family deeply. He was proud of the life he built, the memories he created, and the people he loved. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort knowing his laughter, lessons, and cowboy spirit will live on in all who knew him.

Kelly was preceded in death by his mother, Kathryn “Kitty” Rayunas, and his brother, Michael Rayunas.

He is survived by his loving wife, Shaneice; daughters Ondrea of Illinois and Stephanie of Texas; father Robert Rayunas; brother Rob Rayunas; sisters Vicki Fink and Kristina (Jeff) Selzer; in-laws Joe and Corrine Czarnecki; brothers-in-law Brian (Kathy) Czarnecki and Steven Czarnecki; sister-in-law Kathleen (Randy) Keberlein; dearest friend Ellen (Hunter) Hansen; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A private visitation was held by the family. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Kelly’s legacy is one of love, resilience, hard work, friendship, and finding joy in everyday life.