Raymond Max Grimm

Dear Grimm Family -

We are sorry that it has taken so long for us to send something to all of you. My mom and I are together at our house in Cannon Beach. I read her the obituary and we got to talking about Ray and his art. We want you to know that we still use our wonderful Ray Grimm wine glasses (mostly green, but some red or clear) every time we are here at the beach. When we looked through the slide show on your blog, I saw the Gilgama-fired pieces, I finally learned who had...

Dear Mrs. Grimm and family;
I was in Ray's class at Portland State beginning in 1963. He was not only an art teacher, he was a life teacher. He expanded my world and helped me to see the world in a different context.

I have always had the upmost respect for the man, his work and his many gifts--the most important, I think, has been to inspire his students, giving their worlds breadth, creativity and craft.

He was one of a kind. I for one, will miss him.

Dear Jere and Family,
We still treasure telling the story of Ray's excitement about "firing" the pig for our wedding celebration in his kiln back in 1966. I guess that typifies the general feeling about all of our experiences with Ray..... excitement and involvement with all the wonderful experiences of life. He will be much missed. Our love goes out to all of you.
Doug and Joyce Parmeter

Jere and kids... Ray was my first ceramics teacher, and on the strength of the regard he was held in, I was hired to help Cynthia Bringle and Bob Turner at Penland (many years ago). The old pottery at Portland State, the beach kiln at Haystack, the Bicycle Advisory Committee... some of thee ways Ray, and you all, have crossed my path and blessed me in ways beyond words. Rest in peace, my friend.

Jere,and Family Thank God that he has joined those who paved the way to his resting place. Those of us who played with Ray in N.W. Portland Bocce League will feel the loss of his smile and ability to win the point. May his days be filled with his art, 2 wheel toys and those Bocce Balls.

It won't seem the same not seeing you on the courts come Spring.
Gods speed Ray. Bill Marinelli

Jere and family - though my relationship with you and Ray was brief, I cherish the couple of years I spent at the Thurman Street Studios. I found in you, Ray and all your family an inspiration in how to live an artful life. I am grateful for your warmth and the rich conversation offered during a transitional time in my life. May you find peace and joy in the beauty that still surrounds you.

Jere and Family: Bosco-Milligan Foundation/Architectural Heritage Center founders Jerry Bosco and Ben Milligan treasured their time as students and colleagues of Ray. They had many stories of time in the hot shop with him, and discussions of art. They knew that collectively they were making history in the world of stained glass, and Portland's role in its renaissance. Ray will be greatly missed in the arts and larger community.

Dear Eric,
We are sorry for your loss. Having a father such as your, so talented and giving, is a treasure for generations. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Sincerely