Nicholas David "Nick" Ray

1959 - 2024

Nicholas David "Nick" Ray, passed away on January 14, 2024, at the age of 64 in Waterloo, Iowa. He was born on October 7, 1959, in Waterloo, Iowa. Nick was a loving and adventurous individual with a really big, kind heart. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was known for his quick wit, intelligence and deep spirituality.

Nick had a diverse career, working as a farm worker, a barber, and a welder. He was a skilled tradesman who excelled in his various occupations. In his free time, Nick enjoyed playing music on the guitar, banjo, and mandolin. He had a passion for reading, fishing, spending time in nature, walking his dogs, and most importantly, spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Nick received his education from Tripoli Elementary and Tripoli High School. He furthered his education at Waterloo Barber College and Hawkeye Community College.

Nick is survived by his life partner, Melissa Mendenhall, his sister Melissa Warner, his brother Scott Braniger, his sons Jesse Ray, John Ray, and Tyler Mendenhall, his daughters Brandi Loomis, Amber Stohr, Emily Mendenhall, and Jade Berschman, as well as his 14 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his mother Gloria Brooks Ray, his birth father Michael Braniger, his adoptive father David Ray, his maternal grandparents William and Hiltrude Brooks, his paternal grandparents Delbert and Bess Braniger, and his adoptive paternal grandparents Rubert and Luella Ray.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Nick's memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family, care of Melissa Mendenhall, 2450 Maynard Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701.

Nick will be dearly missed by his loved ones and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His loving nature, adventurous spirit, and kind heart will forever be remembered.