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Ernest PETCH Obituary
1933 – Regina, SK
2014 – Calgary, AB
Ernest Raymond Petch of Calgary passed away peacefully with his family at his side on February 1, 2014, after a brief illness at the age of 80 years. Ray was born in Regina July 18, 1933, grew up in Brandon and Victoria before settling in Calgary. Ray had many passions, but his one true love was music. Ray spent most of his years as a professional Jazz pianist in Calgary and while doing so also began his musical administration career, serving as the President and Secretary Treasurer of the Calgary Musicians Association before moving to Toronto to serve as the Vice-President from Canada of the American Federation of Musicians. In 1997, Ray retired from his music administration career, moving back to Calgary with his wife Dorothy, and resumed writing music and playing piano in two local Big Bands until he retired from playing this past December. Ray was much loved and will be greatly missed by his family: sons and daughter-in-law, John, Randy (Darlene) in Victoria; daughters and sons-in-law, Lynda in Calgary, Valerie (Dave) in Langley and Jacquie (Dean) in White Rock, as well as stepdaughters Kim (Gord) in Calgary and Darlene (Steve) in Vernon; 17 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Ray was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Dorothy in 2008. As per Ray's request the family has planned a Celebration of Life on February 8, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Delta Bow Valley (Ballroom) at 209 - 4 Avenue S.E., Calgary. Please forward condolences through www.hffs.com. The family wishes to thank the Doctors and Nurses for his medical care at both Foothills Hospital and Sarcee Carewest Hospice. It was Ray's request that in lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Stan Brown Benevolent Fund, c/o Calgary Musicians Association, No. 5 - 606 Meredith Road N.E., Calgary, AB, T2E 5A8.
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69 Entries
Dennis Lynch
January 29, 2019
As I reflect on Ray's life, I realize how much my friendship with him affected my life. Knowing that what he shared with me became part of my way of seeing the world, I can remember him with great joy instead of sorrow. Missing you, dear friend...
George Findlay
February 27, 2015
Ray was a great guy and helped our little Dental Band.
God Bless him
Eddie Morris
February 20, 2014
I first met Ray in 1957 when we used to play at the “Foggy Manor” jazz club; an after hours club where musicians would go and play after their gigs were over. Our friendship developed and we were good friends for about 56 years. We played gigs together and were able to work very easily together.
In the early 60's we played on a TV show called ‘Soft Sounds of Jazz' which lasted about 3 years. We followed this with a radio show on CBC.
Ray introduced me to the world of golf and over the years we played many games together.
Ray did a term in the Lord Strathcona's Horse Regiment Band. He was wanted for his piano playing but had to play another instrument. He was put on alto-sax, but this did not work out too well. He ended up playing the bass drum on parades.
We used to play at various parades around the province. One time in Ponoka whilst during a parade, the bass drums beater went missing, so Ray improvised by using a Coke bottle as a beater. Ray played with our big band for a number of years as well as with small groups.
We worked lots in those days and Ray was a great asset to anything we did. We could play a 4 hour job without music and not have to repeat a single tune.
Ray was a staunch union man and worked hard for all the members. Any contract dispute, Ray would work hard to resolve.
When I was unwell, Ray would come and visit me and I was always enlightened by his visits. We shall all miss Ray both for is musical ability and sense of humor.
I shall certainly miss my good friend of 56 years.
Brian Lee
February 13, 2014
Ray was truly a remarkable guy, and its hard to belive he is gone.
I was in awe of his musical skills of course, his dry and creative sense of humor and remarkable wisdom.
What stands out for me was his incredible ability to evaluate students taking our speaker courses. He had a very special talent for teaching new speakers and Im not sure if many knew that.
Of course I cant think of Ray without remembering Dottie, and I will always value my frienship with all the family.
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Dennis Lynch
February 13, 2014
With terrible sorrow, I learned of Ray's passing only yesterday afternoon, a week after the service. I am in shock, as we had made plans to get together in Calgary this summer, and I did not know he had become ill.
Ray mentored me as I began a career in the Musicians Union in 1979, guiding, encouraging, and challenging me. He was the best of friends, and a brilliant man.
Then, back in the 80's, Ray, Dottie, Val, Jaquie, and Linda saved my life when my life was unraveling. I am eternally grateful for their patience, and steadfast support which helped me to finally move forward and succeed in life. You are all in my heart, and Ray is my brother forever. I will miss you dearly....
karel roessingh
February 12, 2014
Ray was my piano teacher in high school, and got me my first gig with the Ernie Castle Quartet. He was a great, encouraging, no-nonsense teacher, and taught me a great deal about how jazz works. I'll never forget him! Heartfelt condolences to his family.
Laurie & Joan Bowes
February 10, 2014
I've been a friend of Ray's for over 50 years, and played with him in the late 50s and early 60s. He was a strong musical personality as well as a leader for the Calgary musical community.
Unfortunately I am out of the country and was unable to attend the Celebration of Life. My condolences to his family.
Brian Brennan
February 9, 2014
I was at the Celebration of Life yesterday, and I know Ray would have been pleased. Clearly, he had many friends in music. I'll always be grateful to him for inviting me back into the Union in 1974, after I'd been away from music for a few years. He even waived the audition! My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Dave Edgar
February 8, 2014
Such a great musician , writer and arranger. I enjoyed working with Ray in the Doug Fox Band and other gigs over the years. Oh, and I finally learned of your real first name! Rest in peace and no smoking.
My Condolences to his family
ian parsons
February 8, 2014
To the family of Ray Petch:
I served in the Strathcona band with Ray. He was one of many mentors when I was a developing young musician. He wasca wonderful role model and it was a privledge to know him. His wisdom & class will be sadly missed.
lan Parsons
Norman Bradley
February 8, 2014
So sorry for your loss, we are unable to attend the celebration of life, but our hearts go out to you girls. Ray was a great musician, and a great uncle, with a wry sense of humour. He was responsible for my lifelong love of jazz. I heard music at their home when I was very young and I was hooked. Ray rest in peace.
Cor Godri
February 7, 2014
Ray was dedicated to the AFM. He always gave 200%, as Secretary Treasurer in Calgary, as Recording Rep AFM and as vice-president from Canada AFM.He truly represented Canadian Musicians.
February 7, 2014
To the Petch family.
Ray was a man of rare integrity whose application of his many and diverse talents enhanced the lives of thousands. He'll continue to be with us for a long time through his loyalty and the impact of his numerous good deeds.
E. Eddy Bayens.
Nan Watson
February 7, 2014
I met Ray for the first time in June 2013 over dinner and discovered we had many friends in common. He showed me a photo of his beautiful wife , he was very prideful of her and his family. I saw him again for the last time in December. This time he talked about looking forward to helping his granddaughter put a CD together, he said she is very talented, he obviously loved his family very much. This love will carry each of you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nan Watson North Vancouver
February 6, 2014
To the Petch family,
I am sorry for your loss.
My dad, my brother, and myself all knew Ray as a man of integrity and honesty. His energy in representing musicians throughout North America will not be forgotten. We have lost a good man, a great musician and an 'old-school' arranger who didn't need new technology to practice his craft.
Thank you Ray, for all of the things you have done for musicians everywhere.
Sincerely,
Ken Kolynchuk
Patricia Lancaster-Brown
February 6, 2014
Hi, I'm Stan Brown's eldest daughter Patricia, now living in New York City. I was so sad to hear of Ray's passing. He was a part of our lives for so long. Also, he helped me set up an ensemble of the best musicians in Calgary for Dad's memorial - naturally he played piano. He also spoke very eloquently at the service of Dad as his role model and mentor, which meant an awful lot to me. My sister, Jamie (Seattle), and I are very moved about the Stan Brown Benevolent Fund, and thank you for that from the bottom of our hearts.
Patricia
[email protected]
Kevin Jones
February 6, 2014
My condolences to the Petch family. Ray was a first class guy and I was lucky to have known him. Ray was truly a musicians friend and a very talented piano player.
Cindy Ganong
February 6, 2014
So very sorry for your loss Jacquie and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you know I am sending you much love and many hugs ~cin
February 5, 2014
so sorry for your loss, it is so hard when you lose your dad,as little girls they are our everything. I believe is will always be close by and keeping a watchful eye on all of you.love you lots Denise x
Greg Stuart
February 5, 2014
A class act. Always watching out for us young musicians in the 70's. Just a nice, genuine man that treated everyone with respect. Thanks Ray.
George Findlay
February 5, 2014
I've known Ray since he first came out of the services. He wrote some music for our little Dental Band. Last saw him the day before he passed away. What a great Guy and Master Musician. George Findlay
Brian Sklar
February 5, 2014
Both Ray and Dottie were great friends and business associates. I saw Ray at the federation convention this past July and he looked and sounded great. I am shocked and extremely saddened at his passing. I will always treasure his story about the Wetaskiwin rodeo show! Rest in peace, buddy.
February 5, 2014
A wonderful musician and great friend to so many musicians he served as a major part of our Federation. I will miss my friend. Condolences to the family Eric Friedenberg Calgary
Paul Harwood
February 5, 2014
My condolences to family, friends and collegues. Ray's passing is a surprise and a great loss. I was on both sides of battles and issues with Ray. I will miss him much. I was reading by coincidence recently, his remarks to the AFM Futures Committee from several years back. He had great ideas. Western Canada! I learned much about you from knowing Ray.
Fred Thoutenhoofd
February 5, 2014
Ray showed me at a very young age that the music industry encompassed many skills, craftsmen, professions etc. I sat with him at the Calgary Musician's Association as a Board member for one year. I must give him some credit for allowing me to be in this business for my whole life.
Thank you Ray.
You will be missed.
Allistair Elliott
February 5, 2014
I first met Ray when I moved to Calgary in 1988. Since then, through his work with Calgary Musicians Association and the Canadian Federation of Musicians, he has been a true example, a great advocate for the cause. This last year I had the pleasure to work with Ray in The Fox Big Band. He was a wonderful arranger, pianist and above all good friend. My deepest sympathies to all the family. (It was a pleasure to have gotten to meet some of you over these last few weeks).
Larry Bechthold
February 5, 2014
It has been my privilege to have had Ray as my friend and mentor since we first met at "The Music Studio" over 45 years ago. He will be deeply missed.
Marg Conway
February 5, 2014
My sympathies go out to the Petch family. Ray was a wonderful person and I enjoyed working with him as AFM Vice President from Canada. It was wonderful to re-connect with him this past July at the AFM convention. He was still so vibrant and lively and involved. He will be greatly missed in our organization and I'm sure even more so, in Calgary.
Cam O'Rourke
February 5, 2014
Have a warm and happy final journey Ray. Your musical creations, great wit, and leadership will be missed by us all. My condolences to his many offspring, what a wonderful and prolific guy!
Brent & Janna Malseed
February 5, 2014
Janna and I first met Ray in the early 80's at a Canadian Conference of Musicians when Ray was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Calgary Musicians' Association. We have always had much respect and admiration for him as a human being and as an understanding and caring union activist. He was a very gifted and talented jazz piano player.
Janna & I were fortunate to have reconnected with Ray Petch at the AFM Convention in Las Vegas this past July, 2013. We know that Dottie will be there to welcome him on the other side. Rest In Peace Ray. We will always remember you.
We will pass this on to the Executive Board and members of the Hamilton Musicians' Guild, Local 293, AFM.
Brent & Janna Malseed
Maggie Burton
February 5, 2014
Bless you Ray Petch. Ray tried to give my Mother piano lessons. For as long as I can remember, she spoke of him with pride at being one of his students. Thank you so much for all you did for musicians everywhere.
Michelle & Shaun Johnson & Family
February 5, 2014
Dear Petch Family,
Please know how very sorry we are for your loss. We will remember Ray fondly as a kind, wise, hard-working and talented man that had a great impact on many throughout his life. May he rest in peace. Our thoughts, love and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Michele MacLeay
February 5, 2014
I had the sincere pleasure and privilege of working with Ray at the Calgary Musicians' Association throughout the 80s and early 90s, until his obvious talent for leadership and dedication to the advocacy of musicians led him to the highest office in the AFM in Canada, Vice President from Canada.
Ray was a brilliant mind, always fair, with utmost integrity and a true love for everything related to music. He was a gifted communicator; he could tell a joke, or walk you down memory lane to Penley's Tent or negotiate a tough contract all with the same apparent ease. I sat with him on many negotiations and saw him give an inch to gain a mile for musicians. He would do it with a smile, end it with a handshake and wind up making friends with his opponents. Always a gentleman, his abilities and charisma garnered respect from both sides of the table. He was a pillar of the music community in Calgary.
It was my good fortune to know Ray. His graciousness was second to none, and I know that his contributions to the music industry will continue to benefit musicians for years to come, whether they are aware of it or not. My condolences to Ray's family, may fond memories help you through this difficult time.
February 5, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. i hope you find peace in knowing he is with the angels and can be with you always now. Lots of love and prayers to you and your family.
Love Heather
Wayne Vandale
February 5, 2014
RIP Mr Petch.
Ross Green
February 4, 2014
Ray took the time to help me get my first recording grant way back in the 80's. I'll never forget his words as I left his office. "Go get em".
Ron Leigh
February 4, 2014
I was saddened to read about Ray's passing. I first met Ray when he was on the Song for Calgary Committee prior to the 1988 Winter Games. He made a very significant contribution.
I also have a cd of his with many original songs. I continue to enjoy it after all these years. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Gerry Hebert
February 4, 2014
Rest in Peace Ray, it was an honour to know and learn from you. Your mentor-ship to me and many others in the CMA and AFM was invaluable. I will miss our conversations about music, the union, golf and family. Bravo Ray!
Blaine Shields
February 4, 2014
My condolences to you Jacquie and Valery
Ray, Roy Reynolds, Gord Shoults 2008
February 4, 2014
Gordon Shoults & Joyce Kelly
February 4, 2014
It is with great sadness that we have lost one of our oldest and dearest musicians and friends. Unforgettable memories of being in the Strathcona Band together, & of working with Ray at the AlSan Club, Foggy Manor, Soft Sounds of Jazz, and countless other gigs.
Ray was an inspiration, a gentleman & so talented. He will
be greatly missed & fondly remembered.
Jim English
February 4, 2014
Ray was a good and tough competitor on and off the golf course. As well I always enjoyed playing music in the same big bands as him. Piece be with you Ray!
Pam Thorberg
February 4, 2014
Mr & Mrs Petch (as we were taught to call our elders) opened their home & hearts to me and (I'm sure they felt at times) Jacquie's amazingly large group of friends.
From Calgary to Windermere, I have over 40 yrs of incredible memories, and I Thank You.
I'm so glad that as adults, we all came to see you play again, the band was amazing.
So now Ray, you can dance with your special lady Dottie, all your favorite songs.
you will be truly missed.
Love and Hugs XOXO
February 4, 2014
Ray and I served as original members of the LDSH(RC) Band in the 1950's and 60's. Along with Eddie Morris we played together in one of Calgary's first ever televised music shows, "The Soft Sounds of Jazz." Ray was a leader in the development of the live music programs presented at the Foggy Manor Jazz Society as well as other important initiatives such as "Jazz At The Jubilee." I shall remember him fondly.
Harry Pinchin, Sherwood Park, AB.
Don Glasrud
February 4, 2014
My condolences to the Petch family. Ray was a fair and honest negotiator and a musical friend and mentor. He will be missed
Rodney D. Mac Donald
February 4, 2014
Ray was an amazing musician that influenced everyone he met. He was my piano teacher for years, I respect and think of him every time I play. I still enjoy and play the music he gave me in the 1970's. I remember so many stories he told me, even of his Mother live on the stage at the Grand Theatre. He and Dottie did so much for so many! My sincere warmest feelings to Ray's family.
Brent and Harold Saklofske
February 4, 2014
Remembering Ray's musical brilliance and great diplomacy as our union leader.
Rest in peace Ray.
John Hyde
February 4, 2014
Ray was a tireless advocate and negotiator for musicians locally and internationally. His beliefs were well represented and he set a fine example of how to defend them.
His leadership will not be forgotten, we will miss him more than words can say.
Neil Bentley
February 4, 2014
Ray was a friend and mentor to me in the early seventies. Every night in his band was like going to school under the watchful eye of a great musician and I loved every minute of it. It took me years to fully appreciate his generosity of time and knowledge, thank you old friend. My sincerest condolences go out to his family.
Harriet Foltinek
February 4, 2014
As a former long-time member of the Calgary Musicians Association, I recall Ray well. His leadership and dedication helped the Association grow to the respected organization that it is today. He was a fine musician too, and will be missed. My condolences to the family.
Nancy McLean
February 4, 2014
I never knew Mr. Petch, but I do know his lovely daughter Jacquie. He must have been a wonderful man to have such a gracious daughter. I'm deeply sorry for your loss.
Paul Leclair
February 4, 2014
We've lost a great friend. I will truly miss him. My wife and I had the pleasure of experiencing his and Dot's hospitality in Vegas and that will be held in our memory. He was always there to give advise and a true leader. Rest in Peace Ray.
Neil Bentley
February 4, 2014
Ray was a friend and mentor to me in the early seventies. Every night in his band was like going to school and it took me years to fully appreciate the time and knowledge he shared with me. My respect and my gratitude go with you old friend, and my sincerest condolences to his family.
February 4, 2014
What a full life he had! Remember him and Dottie well. Our condolences.
Jim and Becky Llewellyn
Dave, Len, Alan and Ray doing what they loved to do best
Ellen Versteeg-Lytwyn
February 4, 2014
Par Hatherly
February 4, 2014
Ray was a great influence on a vast number of musicians. R.I.P. Mr. Petch.
Marguerite Nering
February 4, 2014
Ray was a very talented and admired jazz pianist, and a great advocate of musicians in Calgary and Canada.
Bob Mallalieu
February 4, 2014
As a young musician assigned to the Strath Band....Ray was a bit of a mentor to me and kept me on the straight and narrow.......R.I.P. Ray Go with God.........
February 4, 2014
Mr. Petch will be remembered for the musical legacy he left and the respect he garnered from his peers. May you rest in blissful peace Ray! 'The song has ended but the melody lingers on' Deanna Dubbin
February 4, 2014
My deepest Sympathy to the Petch Family. Remember to hold on to the wonderful memories as they can not be ripped away from you. May he RIP. Love and Prayers extended to all the family. Tracey Mclean Kimpinski
February 4, 2014
Dear Petch Family,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Ray's passing.
Please accept sincere condolences on behalf of myself and the members of the Regina Musicians' Association local 446.
Don Young
President Emeritus
Skip Kutz
February 4, 2014
Always a kind and progressive voice in the music community! Condolences from your comrades at Local 553.
July 2013.
Wayne Morris
February 4, 2014
July 2013 Ray, Wayne, Len and Dave
Wayne Morris
February 4, 2014
Miles Jackson
February 4, 2014
Ray was a great friend of the musicians in Calgary and looked out for our interests under a variety of bizarre situations. He was a good negotiator and always had an open mind and a knack for creative solutions. Hard nosed but fair...
And a darned good musician and writer to boot!
We are sure going to miss you, Ray!
Jacquie Capstick
February 4, 2014
I am very proud to be the daughter of Ray Petch.I'm grateful for the strong values and morals that were entrenched in my life,as well as the love and support.I see all the lives he touched,and made a difference in.I will miss him very much!
Love you dad Jacquie xoxo
Cindy McLeod
February 4, 2014
A true champion of Canadian musicians. Godspeed dear Ray.
Jimmy Carver
February 4, 2014
Ray was the anchor of the Calgary Musicians Union during a period of immense change during the 70's....He coped with it with amazing grace...Rest in peace,Ray.
John Towell
February 4, 2014
Ray was a good man, a good musician and a good friend to so many. He enriched our lives. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
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