John Leslie "Les" Ray

John Leslie "Les" Ray
August 2, 1919 - December 21, 2010

Les Ray, beloved Father, Grandfather, Brother and Uncle, passed away in Centralia on December 21, 2010, after a lengthy illness. Born in Olympia to Martha and Otis Ray, he was a lifelong resident at heart. When away he would frequently return, drawn back to his hometown, family, and friends. He was a graduate of Olympia High School, Class of 1938, where he starred in golf and retained close friends. He served in the Army Air Corps in Alaska during WWII. The war was, for him, like most of his generation, life's signature event. He forever enjoyed reminiscing about those years, especially recalling and listening to the big bands of that era.
Les was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Helen, whom he first met at age sixteen. Together they enjoyed many road trips throughout the Northwest, especially to Oregon's Willamette Valley. His mother and beloved brother, Jim, also preceded him. Surviving family includes his son, Larry; granddaughter, Shana; brother, Bob; and sister-in-law, Lillian. In addition, Cathy, Danny, Johnny, Linda, Ricky, and Ron are surviving nieces and nephews, Rays all, for whom he had a particular fondness.
Dad, you were a fine father and a great provider.
A private graveside service was held for the family during interment on December 30, 2010, at Mills & Mills Memorial Park. The family asks that you simply pause to reflect on the steadfast strength and accomplishment of Les and the rest of that great generation as they continue to pass in review and muster out.