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BORN
1929
DIED
2012
FUNERAL HOME
Raymond Pugh Obituary
Johnston
Ray met Jesus on December 23, 2012 surrounded by family. He passed peacefully, after many years of heart trouble.
Ray was born in Des Moines on February 28, 1929 to Florence Gibson Hill and Carl Pugh. He graduated from Roosevelt High School. Ray received a degree in physical education from Central College, where he was awarded the Schilder Trophy as the outstanding football player in 1951. He received his Masters from Drake University in 1958, and his PhD from Iowa State University in 1968. Ray was a teacher and coach at Garden Grove, Monroe, Johnston, and North High School; and vice principal at Callahan Middle School. In 1970, he began a 26 year career as a professor of physical education & recreation at Drake University.
Ray served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge.
Ray worked as a leader at the Des Moines YMCA Camp while in high school and college. He was the director of the Beaver Valley Day Camp, the Larry Jo Ranch and the 4-H Camp. Ray became the executive director of Y Camp in 1970, and retired in 1991 after 22 great years working with the kids, the kids, the kids!
He was the straight man for the entertainment groups known as the Three Jacks and a Queen, the Little Stinkers, the Plaid Lads, and the Good Time Gang, who entertained at schools across the state for over 50 years.
Ray was a well-known motivational speaker and gave over 150 commencement speeches. He wrote several books, including his favorite quotes, such as "the more you give, the more you live!" He also wrote the musical, The Home Front, based on his youth when he put on shows to raise money for the WWII efforts. The show was performed by several groups of students in the 2000's, including at Hoyt Sherman Place. He received many awards over the years from numerous organizations. The Ray Pugh Institute of New Hope hosts speakers with inspirational messages, in the spirit of Ray's positive attitude and joy of life.
Ray met the love of his life, Doris Ruth (Dodee) Morris in Lorhville, Iowa. They married in 1954, and had five children: Shane (Bobbi), Wyatt (Jody), Jo Renee (Kirk) Hartung, Matt (Jo Ann), and Todd (Tammy). Ray also has 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his step-mother, Helen Pugh. He is preceded in death by both his parents, and his brothers Bob and Dick.
The visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 26, from 3 to 8 p.m. with the family present from 5 to 8 p.m. and a Celebration of Life service on Thursday, December 27, at 10 a.m., both at New Hope United Methodist Church, 4525 Beaver Drive in Des Moines. Burial will be at 3 p.m. on Thursday at Glendale Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Ray and Doris Pugh YMCA Camp Endowment; New Hope United Methodist Church; Drake University's new education building; or Central College.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Pugh
Roberto Lopez-Vides
April 17, 2013
I had the honor to meet Ray as the Director of Y Camp back in 1976, my first year alone in the U.S.
Not knowing the language or the culture he truly made a great impression on me as a kind, loving and wholesome individual. He put into practice everything he preached. His legacy will long live with me and now my children who are beginning to attend Y Camp. My deepest regrets to Dodee, Shane, Wyatt, Matt, Todd and Jo Renee.
Un fuerte abrazo para cada uno de ustedes.
Laurie Conner
January 22, 2013
Dear Ray, what an inspiration you have been to me. From the first time I showed up at Y Camp as Camp Superkis Director to the words you shared at my wedding. You were truly and angel of God's on this earth and now you are an angel with him in heaven. YOu will be so deeply missed.
Sean Averill
December 31, 2012
The positive impact Dr. Pugh has had on my family will never be forgotten. I am glad to know he is at home with his Lord; yet saddened that my young son will never get to "go on a lion hunt" with him. Thank you Dr. Pugh for doing things right.
Sheryl Sigmund
December 29, 2012
Jo Renee--& Family--I was sorry to hear about your loss. Thinking of you.
Nick "E Z" Street
December 27, 2012
Ray and I arrived at Y-Camp the same year - 1946. He was my cabin leader in Whip-or-will. Was I lucky, or what? He was the biggest influence on my life, then and now. He was my hero at Roosevelt and Central. When I competed in FB and track at TRHS and at Whittier College, I wanted Ray to know about it. He influenced me to go on to the coaching profession. I owe Ray more than he'll ever know. He was, without a doubt, the most wonderful man I've ever known.
Bill Rhoades
December 27, 2012
One in a million or more--Our sympahty to Dodee and the children.
Ray conducted himself always as a gentleman and a Christian.
He taught with love and deication to my two sons and I feel that today they are the good family men and citizens through their exposure to Ray Pugh.
Hopefully we may have the opportunity to join him in heavan--the place he now rests.
Bill rhoades Family--Hot Springs Village, AR
Sara & Bryce Hendricks
December 27, 2012
Our sincere sympathy is extended to all of Ray's family at this time, however, we also want you all to know what a blessing his life has provided to our family and all who came in contact with him. I have had the privilege of appreciating his friendship and knowledge and humor since we played softball - Monroe vs. Reasnor and since New Hope and Johnston schools. Heaven is blessed now. Grace and Peace to you all at this time.
Rev. Cindy Alloway
December 27, 2012
Ray's love for us is eternal as God's love is for each of us...."For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8: 38-39)
Rev. Cindy Alloway
December 27, 2012
Ray will always be in my heart and one of the reasons our family fell in love with the Boone YMCA camp! Ray leaves an amazing legacy of positive thinking and hopefulness! I feel blessed to have known him and dearly love his whole wonderful family!
Sarah Finestead
December 27, 2012
Ray was an angel in life and will continue to watch over all and quide us with beams of sunshine and the sparkle of the stars.
Ann Osgood
December 27, 2012
So Sorry for your loss. Prayers to you.
Gina (Palmer) Fletcher
December 27, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about Ray. He taught with my dad at North and I worked with him at the YMCA. He was a wonderful man and willbe greatly missed by all the lives he touched.
Mary Hansen
December 27, 2012
Thank you, Ray Pugh, for providing a lot of kids who didn't have any other opportunities, your entertainment and leadership at YCamp every year, and for being a solid role model, "father figure" and citizen. Thanks for the ZANY skits and "inspiration point" dialogue every year. You made my childhood, as well as many others', more beautiful than you'll ever know. Thank you for raising a great son in Wyatt and his incredible wife, Jody. They were incredible leaders in your "troup", as well. You really, truly made a difference in this world, especially in Iowa. May your family feel comfort and warmth knowing there are a lot more people feeling this loss with them...more than they'll ever know. Mary Rogers Hansen-A "5 year" YCamper
Marv VanAusdall
December 26, 2012
Dodee and family, So sorry to hear of Rays passing. He is in a better place now and we wish all of you God's peace. Your old barber in Johnston, Marv
Don Perry
December 26, 2012
To Dodee and family, It seems just like yesterday I was talking with Ray and you about families and how important the love you share means so much. I always enjoyed Ray's approach to take every issue and negative thought and turn it into a positive and enjoyable thought about life, family, success and growth within yourself. I really looked forward to the opportunity to sit down with Ray just to talk. He was versed in everything, or should I say he always had a thought about any topic. He always found a positive answer to any question. Judy and I enjoyed the brief times we had over the Memorial Day weekends. Our heartfelt love and sympathy reach out to Dodee and the Pugh family. Ray was a man loved by many and will be missed by so many more. God Bless.
Don and Judy Perry.
December 26, 2012
Bobbi, i didn't know your dad but i know he must have been a wonderful man to raise such a great daughter as you. You have my condolences to your whole family. Bobbi in case you don't remember me i bought a lot of tupperware from you over the years and even had a couple of parties too. God Bless you all at this time and always. Sincerely Dan Richardson
Brenda Kellett
December 26, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was a wonderful man, he will always be remembered.
December 26, 2012
was blessed to have known Ray as a coach, as a teacher, as a leader and as a friend. I especially enjoyed seeing and being with him these past two years. Despite the health issues he had faced, he counted his blessings and shared his zest for life and his fellow man. His love of children and enjoyment of life are rarely equalled. Rest in Peace Coach. May God bless the Pugh family and all those who loved this special man.
Weston and Florence Cram
December 26, 2012
Our sympathy to Dodee and all the family. Ray was truly a great person who contributed so much to this world.
Gary Harvey
December 26, 2012
Dear Dodee and family, My thoughts are with you. I was so lucky to have had Ray come to Johnston to teach and coach when I was a junior and a senior. The life lessons he provided -- by word, deed and and example -- left a lasting imprint. I have been blessed to have known him.
Marty and Tony Schmitt
December 26, 2012
We remember Ray from Y-Camp (Family Campers) and the way he would always remember your name and give you a big smile. He was a hugh influence in so many young lives and will be missed. Our prayers and hugs are with all of you this week.
Paul & JoAnn Willcockson
December 26, 2012
We have known your awesome family for so many years having lived in Johnston since 1970 and having our children (Tim and Tracey) go through school with your children. Thank you for being a strong Christian example, we love your family! Paul and JoAnn Willcockson
Eric Machholz
December 26, 2012
What a wonderful man and a wonderful life! I remember seeing his Good Time show many times while growing up in West Des Moines. I also enjoyed my week at YCamp in the late 80's. Ray's wife, Doris, was my 3rd grade teacher at Clegg Park Elementary, and I will always remember, too. My thoughts are with you all.
Amy Carrell
December 26, 2012
The Carrell family sends our love, thoughts and prayers.
Dan Prosser
December 26, 2012
Ray taught us all to plus our pluses and never loose our poise. He reinforced the simple reminder that as leaders and teachers it is all about the kids, the kids, the kids! Ray made the world a better place. He will be missed, but never forgotten. My deepest simpathy to the Pugh family.
Mary Morlan
December 26, 2012
Jo Renee Hartung and family - so sorry to hear about your father/grandfather. Growing up in DM and a graduate of NHS, I know about Ray Pugh and how important his career was to him. May memories bring you comfort. With sympathy - Mary, Bill and Blaine Morlan
Carol Alciati (Voorhees)
December 25, 2012
I've never met anyone who let God's light shine so bright. Wishing I could be at his celebration of life to hear all the wonderful stories. Many prayers of peace for your family this week.
December 25, 2012
I got to know Ray really well through Camp Hertko Hollow. He was and always will be The One And Only Ray. I learned a lot from him. Especially at/on Inspiration Point. R.I.P. Ray. And prayers to the rest of the family.
Darlene Hicks Vander Wilt
R. Gene Stout
December 25, 2012
To Dodee and Family, may God be with you and comfort you in your sorrow.
I, too, am so very, very sad to lose my father figure, and I am forever grateful for your unselfishness in allowing me to share a bit of my life with Ray's life. For athletics, State 4-H Camp, Plaid Lads, and countless counseling sessions, thank you for sharing your family with others. I don't dare think of what the world would have been without Ray.
I find comfort in thinking of Ray leading a Lion Hunt in a better place!
God Bless You All!
Ronny Johnson
December 25, 2012
Ronny Jay Johnson
I am sad today;proud and privileged. Proud and privileged to have known a man that made me who I am and who I have become. Dr.Ray Pugh, my mentor, my friend, and most importantly my father-the paternal figure I never had. He inspired and encouraged me to become the leader and teacher who "brings out the best in other people". I love you Ray and will continue your legacy "It's all about the kids".
Like · · Share · 5 minutes ago ·
Terry Ott
December 25, 2012
My deepest sympathy to your family in this time of loss...but tonight i will sing the tea pot song and remember many great times with your family and at the Y camp
Warren Sparks
December 25, 2012
I love the picture in the paper of the Pugh family as that is how I remember Ray and all including my classmate and teammate Matt and my wife's classmate Todd. How can that picture be 35 years ago?
I cried last night during our Christmas Eve service in Kansas City as it was also my father's birthday. We lost him in 2010 and he would have been 80 yesterday. And now on Christmas Day I cry for Ray.
My leader, boss, advisor, coach, and friend those years ago in Johnston. Having him at football practice was one of the highlights of my athletic memories. His teachings and later recommendation helped me attend the Air Force Academy.
I later attended Drake Law School as a visiting student and the thing that made me proudest was that it was Ray's school.
Ray and family, thank you. You are truly great. Our country and kids need more Pughs.
All our love,
Warren/Shep, Kathy, Warren VI, and Win Sparks
Fellow Soldier and Plaid Lad
ron brooks
December 25, 2012
Coach pugh was the most influental person in my life. I can only imagine what my life would have been like had he not came into it.
My thoughts and prayers our with his family.
December 25, 2012
Through our years at Roosevelt High, Ray's as our senior class president, and as Y Camp counselors at the same time, I often think of Ray, and do so especially now, with great admiration and friendship. My sympathy goes to all his family. Kay Swartz Bucksbaum
December 25, 2012
Ray, spoke at my High School Graduation in Colfax in May, 1971. I remember him well. A great Gentleman and he will be missed.
God Bless,
Chuck Wilson
Joseph Toubes
December 25, 2012
He was my PE teacher back in the 63-65 at North. His mother and my mother were friends, but I didn't know that until years later. He was fair, to the point and one of the nurturing teachers. One didn't have to be a "jock" to score points with him. You just had to never give up. They broke the mold of what a teacher should be after he was born. We will be less with his passing.
Dick McDonald
December 25, 2012
This is especially a sad time for me personally as the I have now lost the second of two most important mentors in my life, my father and now Coach Pugh. As an original member of the Plaid Lads, Coach had a very profound influence on my life. My apologies to Mrs. Coach and the family as I'm living in Little Rock and won't be able to attend the services. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you for your loss. God Bless everyone.
December 25, 2012
Dodee and family--- We send our sympathy and love to all of you. The Pugh family has been such an important part of our lives for so many years. Ray has touched each one of us in so many ways, and we will miss him greatly. Love, Mike, Linda, Sara and Brian.
Coral Dawn Lauver
December 25, 2012
To Dodee and family, I was very sad to read about Ray, but God is with you .Sincerely, Coral Dawn Lauver,So sorry.
Greg Robinson
December 25, 2012
There was only one Ray Pugh. He made you a better person just by meeting and talking with him! He was responsible for teaching so many children, both young and old (I mean grown up old!) the importance to think, believe, dream, and dare. He will be missed, but we are all better for having him in our lives! Take care my friend and thank you for always expecting the best!
Mike Thomas
December 25, 2012
My sincerest condolences to the Pugh family on your loss. Ray will be missed by all of us who were lucky enough to have met him.
Peace
Kelly Montrose
December 24, 2012
Ray was a blessing in my life. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Bill-Linda Ott
December 24, 2012
So very sorry to hear Dr. Pugh has passed away. My husband worked at the Y.M.C.A in Boone Iowa. He took the Indian Guides to the Y camp. Our Son Bob was a little Indian and Ray told the story about the little tea pot. Now when you are young it is cute and our son Bob 46yrs and 2 daughters Terry53 yrs and will Teena 49yrs get together now and sing the Little Tea Pot song. Hw was and always be a blessing to the Y.M.C.A. Our prayers go out to his family
Chris Berney
December 24, 2012
Words can't express my debt of gratitude for knowing you and counting you as a friend. My thoughts and prayers to your family.
Steve Engstrom
December 24, 2012
Thoughts and prayers to the Pugh family.. Mr. Pugh will be sadly missed... He was a wonderful man and taught many people a lot of life's lessons... He will be missed by many.
Donna Parker (Stout)
December 24, 2012
Dodee and Family. Ray will be dearly missed by all who ever had the opportunity to meet him. He was one "Wonderful Person" that made this world a better place by his presence. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
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