Ray Ivany
July 7, 1961 - April 30, 2026
Funeral Details: A Celebration of Ray’s Life will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion Branch 385; East entrance (105 Industrial Pkwy N, Aurora, ON)
Passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Ray will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Catherine, with whom he shared over 42 years of marriage; his son Chris; his daughter Michele and son-in-law Chris; his cherished granddaughter Madison Rae; and his beloved fur babies, Canis and Roxy.
He leaves behind his parents, Doreen and Ches of Aurora, and his sister Sharon Storz (aka Bob) of Innisfil and her family. Ray was also a treasured brother-in-law to Gord (Andrea) and family, as well as George and Glenn Gray.
In his younger years growing up in Aurora, Ray was a true “rink rat” at the Aurora Community Centre, where he also loved roller skating. He spent many years painting cars at Elliotts, before moving onto work at the law office of Sorley and Still. Prior to retiring, Ray proudly worked as a Private Investigator, a role he was deeply passionate about and one that gave him many, many great stories to tell.
Ray loved travelling to warm destinations, always leaving his personal mark by building a turtle in the sand. He enjoyed car shows, ice-cold Canadian draft, and spending time with friends, cousins, and family – especially with his new granddaughter Madison and grand puppy Canis, who brought him so much joy.
Ray was blessed with many incredible people who held a special place in his life. While it’s difficult to name everyone, please know – you know who you are. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, remembering him and his big sense of humour will keep us smiling forever.
A Celebration of Ray’s Life will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion Branch 385; East entrance (105 Industrial Pkwy N, Aurora, ON)
Memorial donations may be made to Southlake Regional Health Centre or Margaret Bahen Hospice, both in Newmarket.
Peaceful Transition York
Chris Dowdall
Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026Having trained Ray as a Private Investigator, he was probably the best trainee I ever had. He always had a smile, was polite and always respectful, not to mention a good friend. I only have good memories of the time we spent together. He was a one of a kind and will live fondly in our hearts. 💕
Kathey Smith
Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026I feel truly blessed to have shared over 30 years of friendship with Ray. So many happy times together
(Ray made all times together happy for everyone). I loved watching him look at his wife, Catherine, who he always loved and cherished. Ray had a gift of always making whoever he was with feel special.
I will miss Ray very much. See you on the other side and don’t forget your thong! 💞
Jessica friedman-Wilkie
Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026I’m so sorry for your loss Catherine. I know you and I have spoken about Ray and this battle he’s been fighting for years. You have been so strong. Ray was your love of your life. He was a fantastic husband, father and grandfather and also friend. He was full of life and his personality brought so much joy into everyone’s lives. Will always remember his incredible kindness, humour and warmth. It was an absolute honour to know Ray. “I am here for your family Catherine, whatever you need. Sending you endless love and strength as you navigate this unimaginable time
Debbie Bentley
Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026Allan and I send our deepest condolences to Cath and family. We will miss his infectious smile and fun loving spirit. Sending our love and support through this sad time.
Catharine Colby
Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026My heartfelt condolences to Doreen, Ches, Catherine, Sharon, Chris, Michelle and families.
I fondly remember growing up with Ray. He always had a grin from ear to ear and a friendly tease.
Treasure your memories and know he’ll always be watching over all of you.
Cathy (Bullen, Steenhoek) Colby
Joe Hardiman
Posted on: Wednesday, May 6, 2026Catherine and family, I am devastated knowing that Ray has passed away. I knew that he was sick but if anyone could beat it it would be Ray,. I knew he loved you back when we walked to Aurora high or would go roller skating. I tried to keep up with Ray not gonna happen. I remember Wellington towers. You built a wonderful life together and a beautiful family. Ray will be missed and loved forever. My sincere condolences and sympathies and love.
Sincerely
Joe Hardiman
Margaret Bahen Hospice
Posted on: Wednesday, May 6, 2026It was an honour to care for Ray at Margaret Bahen Hospice. On behalf of the entire Margaret Bahen Hospice team, please accept our deepest sympathies. http://www.myhospice.ca
Lauri Ruth Anderson
Posted on: Wednesday, May 6, 2026I grew up with Ray on Haida Dr in Aurora Playing hide and seek until the street lights came on I was lucky enough to watch his romance flourish with Cathetine They were meant to be at a very young age I may be wrong but believe they were an item in grade 7 You could see even then that it was a one of a kind love that would last forever Rest in Peace Ray
Cynthia Evans
Posted on: Wednesday, May 6, 2026My sincere condolences and sympathy to you and your family Catherine.
Just know that you have a whole support system in you corner to lean on for help and support in the challenging times ahead
Glenn, Lisa, Jocelyne, Mackenzie, Sara, Orson
Posted on: Thursday, May 7, 2026Our heartfelt condolences from all of us. The devastating news hit hard. And all the memories Lisa, I and the kids have of Ray will always be remembered. His kindness and acceptance of everyone was amazing. His love for kids was incredible. Truly happy memories with visits in the summer time in the backyard pool and BBQ’s. Ray will be sorely missed but NEVER forgotten.
Chris Mayes
Posted on: Saturday, May 9, 2026Such sad news. My sincere condolences to Ray’s entire family.
Ray, the Master of Pool Side BBQ.
You will be missed My Friend.