July 9, 2025 – Placerville, CA — Placerville Police Department officials announce it is with deep sadness the sudden passing of Ray Bosnich at his home on Saturday. The cause of death has not yet been determined; however, Ray had a known history of cardiac issues.
Ray’s remarkable career in public service spanned 55 years in law enforcement. After courageously volunteering for the U.S. Army and serving a tour of duty during the Vietnam Conflict, Ray continued his selfless dedication to his country and community by joining the Marin County Sheriff’s Office. Within a year, he transferred to the San Francisco Police Department, where his work ethic, integrity, and passion for the job earned him numerous awards and commendations.
Ever drawn to the spirit of the “old west lawman,” Ray found his true home in Placerville. After 10 years with the San Francisco Police Department, he joined the Placerville Police Department, and his first shift — covering the historic Wagon Train event — cemented his love for the community he would serve for decades.
During his tenure at Placerville PD, Ray held many assignments, including Officer, Detective, and Sergeant. However, the roles he was best known for were the informal ones: friend, mentor, and father figure. After retiring from sworn service, Ray remained dedicated to his community, working locally and ultimately returning to PPD in a part-time civilian position. In total, he spent 38 years serving the Placerville Police Department and the citizens of Placerville.
Ray Bosnich’s impact on the law enforcement family and the wider community is immeasurable. His legacy of mentorship, friendship, and steadfast service will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Ray is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his sons, Jeff, and Jeff’s wife, Brenda; Antone and his wife Kate; stepdaughters, Jennifer Williams, Nichole Soukup, Michelle Rubalcava; grandchildren; Dylan Bosnich, Morgan Soukup, Kayla Soukup, Karis Lopez, Kennedy Bosnich, Wyatt Rubalcava, Oliver Rubalcava, Ryker Bosnich, Sarah Aguayo, Sydney Rice, great granddaughter Vivienne Aguayo and sister, Rita Bosnich. Predeceased by his mother and stepfather, Lawrence and Sylvia O’Brien; Father Antone J. Bosnich. Predeceased by his brother, Frank Bosnich.
For media or community inquiries, Reserve Police Sergeant Duane Tadlock will serve as the family liaison and can be reached at dtadlock@cityofplacerville.org. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that anyone wishing to honor Ray’s memory consider donating to their favorite charity in his name. Ray Bosnich will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bosnich family and our Placerville Police Department family.
Source & photo: Placerville Police Department
