Dodge, Raymond Harold (Ray)
A resident of St. Joseph’s Extended Care Unit and previously of Intermediate Care Facility in Cumberland, passed away August 8th, 2003 after suffering for the past few years with Alzheimer’s.
Ray was born September 1st, 1935 in Victoria, BC, but grew up in the North Thompson Valley. After graduating from Nanaimo Vocational School in 1953, Ray was employed by the Department of Highways in Courtenay as a heavy duty/diesel mechanic. In 1959/60, he went into business with his father-in-law to establish “Obbie’s Sales and Service Ltd.”. He continued to operate this business until ill health forced him into retirement.
Ray was a very dedicated business man, but when time allowed, he enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening, especially with his family.
Ray was predeceased by his mother and father, Bill and Rose, son Kelly, brother Clifford, niece Colleen Bell, and brother-in-law Frank Bell.
Ray will be sadly missed by his loving family: wife of 45 years Beverley; son Ron; daughter Cathy Wasyliw; grandson Andy Wasyliw; and granddaughter Brandy Wasyliw. Also left to mourn are three brothers: George (Vera) of Courtenay, Don (Shirley) of Richmond, and Melvin (Bonnie) of 100 Mile House; brother-in-law Danny (Doreen) Bell of Merville; many nieces, nephews and good friends; and very good friend Bob Castle.
From our happy home
and circle
God has taken one we loved;
Borne away from sin
and sorrow
To a better land above.
In tears we saw you sinking
We watched you fade away
All our hearts were broken
You fought so hard to stay
But when we saw you sleeping
So peacefully from pain
We would not wish you back
To suffer the pain again.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 15th at 2:00 p.m. in the Courtenay Civic Cemetery, Lawrence Burns officiating. Ray’s family would like to thank all the dedicated nurses, staff and volunteers at both the Cumberland Intermediate Care Facility and St. Joseph’s ECU for their loving care and kindness shown to both Ray and his family for the past 21 months. The kindness we were shown during the last week of Ray’s life will never be forgotten. Special thanks to Chaplain Brian Ducedre for your dedicated support and prayers. Piercy’s Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.