In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness that the family of Raymond Arthur Williams announces his passing at the age of 76. In 2015, Ray was diagnosed with a rare muscle disease called IBM and fought hard to live a "normal life" despite the challenges of this disease. Ray died peacefully on July 20, 2023 with family by his side.
Ray was born to Vernon and Pearl Williams on July 22, 1946, in Vancouver. Ray was predeceased by both parents and his brothers, Leonard and Glenn. Ray is survived by his wife, Margo, of almost 51 years; his loving and devoted son, Sean; his lovely daughter-in-law, Elina; and precious grandsons, Rye and Parker.
Ray shared a special relationship with brothers/sisters-in-law Tim (Anita), Rick (Kathy), Bob (Ann), Doris (Ron Sr.), Jane (Jerry), Shirley (Emilio) and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He made and nurtured special lifelong friendships that enriched his life.
Ray was a devoted and loving husband with a generous heart. He was funny, hardworking, intelligent and quick-witted. He always had time to listen with a welcoming smile and great conversation and loved hosting family and friends in his home. He was exceptionally proud of his son and daughter-in-law's successful careers, and their roles as devoted spouses and parents. He delighted in "teasing" his grandsons and daughter-in-law mercilessly during visits.
Ray's profession as a Certified Management Accountant started with B.C. Forest Products in Vancouver and, with that, a move to Campbell River for 20 years. He continued his career path working for United Van Lines in Abbotsford (1993), returned to Vancouver to work as a CFO (2001), and had one final move to South Surrey where he settled into retirement in 2010.
His love of travel took him to New Zealand, Australia, and European countries including Wales (where his Dad was born), Scotland, Ireland, Portugal and Spain, as well as on Caribbean cruises. Together with his family, he took trips throughout the U.S. and across Canada visiting family and friends along the way. Above all, his favourite destination was visiting and exploring the Hawaiian Islands. Many "memories of the heart" were made on these adventures.
Ray was an active person enjoying squash, racket ball, golf, ocean fishing, hiking, bowling, curling and, of course, a good game of poker. His love of cars made him the owner of many sporty vehicles, his favourite being a yellow Corvette convertible. Country music was always in his soul.
Ray will be honoured with a Celebration of Life at a future date. If you wish, and with many thanks, donations can be made in his name to the B.C. Children's Hospital Foundation (bcchf.ca).
"I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I'd like to leave the memories of happy times and laughing times and bright sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun of the happy memories that I leave behind."
~ Adapted from "Afterglow" by Helen Lowrie Marshall
Raymond - We will miss you!
Additional Photo(s):
