Camano Island - Raymond Earl Cresap, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 3, 2025, at his home on Juniper Beach, Camano Island, Washington. He was 90 years old.

Raymond was born on August 7, 1934, in Portland, Oregon, to his parents John and Lucille Cresap. A proud graduate of Battle Ground High School in 1953, he went on to attend the University of Washington, where he excelled as a two-sport athlete in basketball and baseball. He was also a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1957 with a degree in Education, followed by a Master's Degree in Physical Education from Central Washington University.

On September 14, 1957, Raymond married the love of his life, Joan Kay Mjelde. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family and shared adventures. They raised two children: Ty Cresap and Tanya (Cresap) Atilano. Raymond's legacy extended through his cherished grandchildren-Courtney Cresap, Ty Cresap Jr., Bryce Atilano, Matthew Atilano, Hannah Rohner, Andrew Atilano, and Lucille Atilano-and his 6 great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sister Pauline Keefer. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Wendell Cresap, and his sister Catherine Harkleroad.

A dedicated educator, Raymond spent over 30 years teaching, mostly at Stanwood High School. He truly made his mark as a high school basketball coach, ending his career as one of the winningest high school coaches in Washington State history. In addition to many other honors, he was inducted into the Stanwood High School Sports Hall of Fame and the Washington State High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 1996. He also coached high school baseball and football, leaving an indelible mark on countless student athletes over the years.

In retirement, Raymond embraced his love of travel with Joan by exploring destinations such as England, Ireland, Norway, Poland, France, and Korea. He found joy in fishing and boating and took pride in building the family home on Juniper Beach starting in 1968. He was an active member of the Stanwood Kiwanis for many years giving back to the Stanwood community.

Raymond will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those he leaves behind.

A memorial service will be held to honor Raymond's life at 11 AM on February 1, 2025, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Stanwood, Washington.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Stanwood Camano News from Jan. 14 to Jan. 15, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Cresap

12 Entries

Kathie and John Dolton

February 14, 2025

I'm so sorry I did not see this notice until today 2/14. I would so much have gone to the memorial service. We, John and I, have had a very long caring relalionship with Ray. He was my neighbor on the "hill" in Stanwood for many years; he was one of my high school teachers; he later became the landlord to my mother in law, Esther Dolton on the "hill". His wife, Joan was my daughter, Jessika Sherks teacher. I used to babysit Ty and Tanya. We even visited them in Arizona one year. He became a man of many things to my family, including my brother Dan Sherk. He was always friendly, caring and funny. We are so thankful to have known him for so many years, and in so many aspects of our lives. May God be with his family during this time. I would love to hear from anyone in his family.

Nalin Sood

February 8, 2025

On behalf of the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association, please accept our condolences on the passing of Coach Cresap. A great man, educator, and Coach.

Nalin Sood
Executive Director, WIBCA

Linda Norback

February 1, 2025

Dear Joan and kids, wish I could be there to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Wonderful memories.

Jeff Hopper

February 1, 2025

Rest in peace, Coach. May the family find peace, joy, and strength in his memory.

Dana Arentzen

January 25, 2025

Rest in Peace Mr. Cresap. My most sincere condolences to your family

Jim Pollock

January 18, 2025

The Lord's comfort and peace to all the family and friends. Enjoyed working with Ray and getting his advice with the younger teams I coach. Great guy!!

Connie Jacobsen-Smith

January 15, 2025

Tanya and Ty, I´m sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. Mr. Cresap was a wonderful gym teacher. I´ll always remember his smile and kind mannerism. Condolences.

Amy Bonano

January 13, 2025

Heartfelt condolences to Joan and the Cresap Family. What an incredible impact Ray made during his life (loved reading about his stellar athletic background!) not only on all the student athletes he coached, but also on his friends and family, all who hold him in the highest regard. Ray will be truly missed and greatly remembered.

Betsy Ellen Shields

January 13, 2025

Thinking of all of you as you remember his life and love of family and community. He will be missed but his memory is in your hearts Many blessings

Linda Nelson

January 13, 2025

A truly 'beautiful person' inside and out who lived his life with honor, dignity and grace. His 'leaving' is heartbreaking for those of us who had the pleasure of his company if only at brief times. Rest in Peace dear fella.

Steve Sundberg

January 11, 2025

May God bless the family during this difficult time of loss. Rest easy Coach.

Becky Ellingsen

January 10, 2025

My sympathies for your loss. He was a great man

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