Beloved husband and father died Aug. 31, 2015. To know him was to love him. His smile was irresistible. His kind heart and gentle voice made for a truly winning combination. He is leaving behind his wife and partner of 19 years, Debby Martin; former wife and the mother of his children, Judith Martin; daughter, Lori; son, Anthony and step children Gregory, Lalina and Gina. He is also survived by nine beautiful grandchildren and his devoted sister Beverly, with whom he had an especially close, loving relationship.
Ray was born Sept. 20, 1939 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton. He lived in the tri-valley area the remainder of his life, residing in Tracy, Escalon and Manteca. He graduated 8th grade from Banta School in 1954 and Escalon High School in 1958. In 1963 Ray was drafted during the Vietnam War. He was proud to serve in the U.S. Army, and he was stationed in Germany where he had opportunity to experience travels in Europe. Throughout his 40-plus year career as a welder/iron worker in the almond processing industry; Ray was known as a hard-working man with a heart of gold. He always arrived early, was more than willing to stay late and without exception got the job done. Ray will be fondly remembered as a man who loved his God, loved his family and loved his Harley Davidson Road King. Farewell sweet man, until we meet again in the presence of our dear Lord Jesus. A private “celebration of life” service was held on Sept. 4 at The First Presbyterian Church of Tracy.
The family would like to send a heartfelt thanks to the dedicated workers at Alexander Cohen Hospice House in Hughson, Ca. The gracious care and tranquil surroundings of this lovely place, made our final days with Ray ones of comfort and peace. Please send memorial donations to Alexander Cohen Hospice House, 2201 Euclid Ave., Hughson, CA 95326.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times
Sept. 16, 2015