Raymond Ramsdell

"Our loss is Heaven's gain, no more painÉ" Raymond William Ramsdell "Ray" Ray, surrounded by loved family and friends, peacefully passed away on March 23, 2007. Born in Washington on January 31, 1950, Ray spent the entirety of his life in the Puget Sound area. Beginning his path into a lifelong career, he started work for Moorehaven Inc. in 1968 and held several different positions through 1972. Most notably, he was promoted from administrator- in-training to Administrator of Messenger House on Bainbridge Island. He remained with the company, which eventually changed names to Soundcare Inc., and was promoted to Project Manager in 1990. After many successful projects under his belt, Ray was announced as the Executive Vice President of Soundcare in 1991. To the very end, his unwavering dedication to the company was nothing short of admirable. Ray will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 32 years, Patricia, and his children Larry (Kelly), Ryan (Missy), Shannon, and Andrea (Joel). He is survived by his mother Marjorie (George), and younger sister Margaret (Ken) and will be forever adored by his three grandchildren Bailey, Clara, and Evan. He is preceded in death by his father William and little brother Larry. Family and friends would like to thank the amazing staff at Tacoma General's ICU for their wonderful care and support. To his friends who donated so much of their time and hard work to make his final year a much easier one, there are few words that accurately express the love and gratitude felt by family. A special thanks to Dr. Carter, Phyllis and everyone with the MDA association. He may have lost the fight against ALS, but he was never without courage, determination and always lived each day with his unique sense of humor. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 30, 2007, 11:00 am at St. Patrick Catholic Church located at 1001 North J St., Tacoma, WA 98403 followed by a reception, and a private family interment at Calvary Cemetery. A viewing will be held at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel located at 1002 South Yakima Ave., Tacoma, WA 98405 from noon – 8:00 pm Thursday, March 29, 2007. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be sent in Ray's name to MDA Tacoma District, 633 Mildred St., Suite D, Tacoma, WA 98406. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.