Louis J. Wray

WRAY Louis J. "Lou" Wray, 88, passed away October 28, 2012. He was born September 11, 1924 in Columbus, Ohio and was preceded in death by his parents Ross and Elsa Wray and a brother Robert Wray. He was employed by Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, as an accountant for 41 years before retiring in 1986. He graduated from Columbus South High School and Capital University. In World War II, he served three years of sea duty with the U.S. Coast Guard, as a signalman. He was active with Boy Scout troop 25, was an avid Ohio State and Cleveland sports fan, an active member of Tallmadge First Congregational Church, President of Central Ohio Data Processing Management Assoc., an honorary Kentucky Colonel, Vice President of the Tallmadge Republican Club, Tallmadge Civil Service Commission, a member of Summit County Republican Executive and Central Committee, an advisor to Columbus Technical Institute (now Columbus University), a former national board member of the American Cancer Society, a 50 year member of Ralph Richly Lodge #670 FAM, Valley of Columbus Scottish Rite, Tallmadge American Legion, the C-Ohio Club and the Tuesday Men's Bible study. He served as the National President of the United Ostomy Association in 1979-1980. Lou and his wife, Rita, were honored by the National Ostomy Assn. in 1980 in Vancouver, BC with their highest honor, The Sam Dubin Award for exceptional service to U.O.A. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Rita Highsmith Wray; daughter, Janice Jacobs (Texas); sons, James (Gale) Wray of Florida, Jeff Wray of Missouri; and stepsons, Denny (Judi) Highsmith, Dale (Pam) Highsmith, and Dave (Janet) Highsmith. He leaves 13 grandchildren, with 8 spouses, and 17 great-grandchildren, and a brother, Donald Wray, of Columbus. Funeral Service will be held at 12Noon Saturday, November 10, 2012 at the DONOVAN FUNERAL HOME, 17 Southwest Ave., (On the Historic Tallmadge Circle) with Rev. Dr. John Schluep officiating. Interment will be at Tallmadge Cemetery. Visitation will be 10 a.m.-12Noon Saturday, November 10th at the funeral home. After the graveside service there will be meal at The First Congregational Church, 85 Heritage Drive Tallmadge Oh 44278. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tallmadge First Congregational Church.