Ray Wood Wiblin

Ray Wood Wiblin, Jr., 82, of San Mateo, California, passed away surrounded by his wife, son, and daughter on August 28, 2025, at Mills-Peninsula Hospital in Burlingame, California, following a courageous battle with lymphoma and subsequent complications from interstitial lung disease.
Born on August 30, 1942, in Rochester, Pennsylvania, Ray was the son of the late Ray Wood Wiblin and Ella B. (née Buzzard). His life was defined by service-to his country, his community and his family.
Ray began his career in the United States Air Force and continued serving in the Air National Guard before joining the U.S. Army as a civilian. His career later led him to the U.S. Department of State, where he held roles that included work with the Model United Nations. Beyond his professional service, Ray gave generously of his time as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, the U.S. Census Bureau, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and Meals on Wheels.
A dedicated student throughout his life, Ray earned his bachelor's degree from West Virginia Wesleyan College and a master's degree from the University of Southern Illinois branch at Scott Air Force Base.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Kathleen Wiblin (née Taylor); his children, Edward "Ted" Wiblin, Martha Wiblin Fisk (Dustin), and Michael Christopher Mielke; and his treasured grandsons, Jacy Tarron Fisk, Camden Montano Fisk, and Joshua Matthew Mielke.
A man of many interests, Ray was a passionate reader of history, biographies and novels. He found joy in music and was a longtime choir member. He was deeply committed to his volunteer work and maintained a keen interest in government and civic engagement throughout his life. Above all, Ray was devoted to his family, and he will be remembered as a steadfast defender and supporter of his wife, his children and his grandchildren.
A small family gathering will be held on Wednesday, September 3rd, followed by his interment at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to West Virginia Wesleyan College, honoring Ray's love of learning and his enduring connection to his alma mater: https://www.wvwc.edu/give/