“End? No, the journey doesn’t end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it.”
—J.R.R. Tolkien

Ray loved music, orchids, roses, and every flower on the planet. Most of all he loved people. No coincidence that his favorite song is “People” sung by Barbra Streisand.

Ray was born to Bill (passed in 1997) and Grace (passed in 1992) at Mount Hamilton Hospital at 8:00 a.m. He was soon joined by brother Paul (Marlene) Doug (Jo), Mauri (Sarah), and Danny (Janis). He entered the Royal Canadian Navy in 1951 and served for 5 years. When asked in his later years about regrets, he noted that he should have used his time in the Navy better. Professionally, he went on to serve in plant management roles at NR Systems, SPAR, and Aerospace Division, DSS.

He married Edna Joynt on March 13, 1954. His posting to Churchill, Manitoba that same year brought challenges because of the remote location but Stretch and King brought beauty and love. In 1964, they welcomed baby Dana - the family of 3 (and always animals) was complete.

Ray was much like his father, who was known as kind and extremely generous. For instance, Ray would stop his car for a turtle who was attempting to cross and gently ensure their safety. He was sensitive to children and always "On" - funny and full of jokes with strangers. He also was full of contradictions - his motto was "moderation in all things" but he never practiced that in his real-life. He lived fully…

After the passing of his remarkable Edna in 1999 and his amazing mother-in-law, Grace Joynt's in 2002, he dealt with some health issues but continued with a hectic social schedule. He loved volunteering at the Ottawa Heart Institute every Friday. He experienced wonderful moments of travel with his dear companion June (who passed in 2014) and her family, Maggie (Jeremy) and Ron. He adored her grandchildren - known as Grandpa and related somehow to Santa.

His sister-in-law, Lois (Mike McGuire) passed away on January 31st of this year. When he learned of her imminent passing, he sobbed openly. It was a gift to witness such depth and vulnerability in a man who rarely showed that side of himself - there is beauty during the windstorms of life.

He will be remembered for his generosity and kindness by many we know and many we have never met. His daughter and son-in-law Aubrey are incredibility grateful for his enthusiasm, love, and unwavering support.

It takes a village to ensure a good life and good death. Dana and Aubrey are grateful beyond measure to Carol (his guardian angel on earth), Kitty (his incredibly kind neighbor), Desmond (his new and cherished friend), Veronica (property manager), and Joe at the Saville Apartments where Ray resided for the last 5 years.

Ray's medical team led by gifted Dr. Shamim Taherzadeh have been extraordinary. From his palliative care coordinator at CCAC, Lorraine Sharpe, to his talented and committed nurses from Bayshore Home Health: Calvin, Asha, and Geoff. Special thanks to Marie and the other team members at Ottawa West Community Support. Gratitude to Dr. Goindi and his favorite nurse Peter at the Ottawa General Campus. We also wish to acknowledge Christine, Mario and Joni Feldman (exceptional) at the Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital. Ray’s stay was brief but they were wonderfully supportive. Deepest appreciation to Katrina Phillips at Beechwood.

Gratitude to the members of the Salvation Army Church and Major Erin Verhey for their prayers. The warmth and grace displayed by Major Erin has been a major source of comfort for Ray. Special thanks to nephew Mike and niece Wendy for their love of Uncle Ray and to the large group of nieces and nephews from both sides of the family.

An Evening for Ray will be held at Bethany Hope Centre, 820 Woodroffe Avenue on Friday February 17, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. A Kindness Bench will be dedicated to Ray at Beechwood Cemetery in the Botanical Gardens on June 25, 2017. The bench will sit in front of the 140 + year old Maple tree that was dedicated to honour Edna's courage and unequivocal love (his words).

Should you wish to remember Ray by making a donation to a charity, may we suggest Ottawa Dog Rescue (registered Ontario and Federal non-profit charitable corporation). Ray always wanted to help the most vulnerable. Cheques can be mailed to 420 Evenwood Pvt, Ottawa, Ontario, K2J 0E5 or e-transfer to ottawadogrescue@gmail.com.

..."A feeling deep in your soul
Says you were half now you're whole
No more hunger and thirst
But first be a person who needs people
People who need people
Are the luckiest people in the world."
- Jule Styne & Bob Merrill