After a six-month battle with cancer, Ray passed away peacefully at home, his family by his side, on April 17, 2007.
He was born in Sedley Saskatchewan on November 18, 1929, arriving in Chilliwack as an infant. This permanent move gave him justification to self-proclaim local privileges, because “I’ve lived here all my life.”
Ray was raised in a family with six siblings, Helen Sidney, Bill (predeceased in 2004) (Esther) Sperling, Bertha (Herb) Kreger, Bob (Doris) Sperling, Norm (Pat) Sperling and Maurice (Emily) Sperling. He was also predeceased by his parents, John and Marion Sperling and sister, Agatha Christine, 1930 at three years of age.
Dad, choosing carpentry as
his trade, left his mark of excellence on numerous build–ings and schools throughout the valley.
In 1955 Ray and his bride Phyll began a life together that leaves behind a legacy of three children, Teri (David) Gadd, Tim (Kitsie) Sperling, Joan (Gord) Beldam, 10 grandchildren, Wendy, Sarah, Jordan, Allison, Kevin, Andrew, Sam, Madison, Nolan and Suzi, as well as two great-grandchildren, Jaclyn and Jacob. Their love of family and friends took them on many of life’s excellent adventures which will leave us all with wonderful memories.
Ray was a lifetime member of Gyro International Fraternity of Friendship, serving as District Four Governor, 1980-1981. He was also a member of the 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus as well as the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, serving two consecutive years as Faithful Navigator of the 4th Degree, Henry Maurice Assembly.
When you think of Ray you think of kindness, loyalty, gentleness, unconditional faith and love. Dad would always ‘jest’ to those close to him that God made him “just perfect”! Well Papa, you were right, nobody defines “Perfection” in our eyes greater than you.
Dad would say his life has been enriched and blessed by so many, but truth be known, we are the ones enriched and blessed by knowing him.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Scott Markey, whose devotion to his own profession, has brought us much comfort and strength these past months. Also thank you to Lisa Shearer RN, Judy Burk RN, Shirley Rollheiser RN, and all the many people from the home support team. Also a special thank you to all the dedicated staff at the Hampton House for all their kindness and support.
Thank you also to all our many wonderful friends and family for your cards, letters, emails, visits and phone calls and the many ways you have helped, especially your tremendous support for myself Phyll, and Teri, Tim and Joan. Your love and caring has been so appreciated.
Funeral mass will take place on Saturday April 21st at Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Chilliwack, at 3:00pm. Burial will follow at Saint Mary’s cemetery in Sardis.
Evening prayers will be held Friday evening April 20th at 7:00pm at Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church.
Arrangements made by McLean’s Funeral Service Ltd. 604-847-3477.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in Ray’s name, or to a charity of your choice, would be greatly appreciated.