Raymond Andrew Begay

Raymond A. Begay, 78 of Arkansas City, KS died Monday, March 18, 2013, at his residence. Funeral services have been scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2013, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Winfield, KS. Pastor Robert Ferris will officiate. Friends may greet the family 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home. Ray was born March 15, 1935, to Andrew and Olive (Blackhorse) Begay in Tocito, NM. He was reared and educated in Tocito and Chilocco Indian School where he graduated from in 1953. While at Chilocco he played baseball and football and lettered in both sports. After high school Ray served his country in the US Army until his honorable discharge in 1958. On July 27, 1972, Ray married Alice Dohaltahe in Tocito, NM. The couple made their home in Arkansas City, KS. Ray worked as pork foreman for Rodeo Meats for 33 years until his retirement in 1988. He then worked for Rubbermaid and Helms for several years. Ray was a life member of the American Legion Post #18, and a member of the First Southern Baptist Church. Ray had a passion for sports, especially the OU Sooners and NY Yankees. He also loved reading, working on his cars, hunting, fishing, riding his horses, working his cattle, and most of all his family. Although Ray left New Mexico at an early age, he loved going back to visit his relatives and made sure his children knew their Indian heritage. Ray was most proud of his family. Survivors include his wife Alice of the home; daughters, Shirley Begay of Sioux Falls, SD; Donna Stover and husband Greg of Geuda Springs, KS; Michelle Begay and companion Ronnie Rommell of Arkansas City, KS; son, Donovan Platero of Arkansas City, KS; brother, Robert Begay and wife Gloria of Shiprock, NM; sister, Roselynn Williams of Tocito, NM; four granddaughters, Shannon, Traci, Rhea, Miranda, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister. A memorial has been established with the Cowley County Humane Society. Contributions may be made through the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of the Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.rindt-erdman.com.