Charles Ramon "Ray" VATER

March 17, 1929 - September 11, 2025

Ray Vater was born in Chemainus, BC on March 17, 1929 and died peacefully in Nanaimo on September 11, 2025. Ray and his sister Myrna grew up in Chemainus until the family moved to Victoria and their parents opened the Vaters Grocery Store on upper Government Street.

Ray was predeceased by his parents Charles and Dorothy, and his wife of 66 years Barbara (2023).
Ray is survived by his sister Myrna Pretty, nieces Terry, Kelly, Louise, Gloria, Diane, and Kathy, and nephews David, Alan and Robert, and their families.

Ray and Barbara both worked for the Provincial Government for many years until their retirement. It was there that Ray met Barbara Lifton and they were married in May 1957.
Ray loved sports and played soccer, hockey and softball.

Together Ray and Barbara spent many happy years enjoying bowling, skiing, curling, golfing, camping and cruising. After retirement they spent 25 years wintering in Tucson, Arizona and made many friends while golfing and hiking. In 1993 they moved to Parksville and bought a Patio Home on Morningstar Golf Course. Sadly it would be their last home.

There will be no service.

We will miss you Ray. Rest in Peace.