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

CONDOLENCES

3 Condolences
  • Chris Dowdall
    Posted on: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 Reply

    Having 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, 2026 Reply

    I 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, 2026 Reply

    I’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

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