Donald Ray
Donald Ray

Obituary of Donald Gordon Ray

RAY, Donald Gordon Reverend Donald Gordon Ray, DFC, B.A., DD, born January 1918, died peacefully on December 17, 2010 after a short illness, cared for by family and staff at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Predeceased by his wife Mary and brother Jack, he will be lovingly missed by his children Judith (Fred), Ian, and Duncan (Christine) and wife Joan and her children Andrew (Takako), Jennifer (Dave), and Sarah (Andy). He was loved by many friends, nephews and nieces, and Joan's grandchildren, and the many people he met in his life. As a flight lieutenant during WWII, Don was a navigator in the RAF. He returned after the war to finish studies and was ordained as a United Church minister in 1946. He left his mark in Berwyn, AB, Kettleby, ON, and Dauphin and Winnipeg, MB. He was called to Church House in Toronto in 1970, becoming General Secretary in 1973. He was not only a wonderful pastor, but was also committed to human rights and interfaith dialogue, and forged many connections because of it. On retirement, he continued to provide leadership and ministry to many and was a much loved Minister Emeritus at the Donway Covenant United Church. He had time for community groups, was generous to many charities and was loved by his family not only as a husband and father but also as a mentor. A celebration of Don's life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donating time or resources to a charity of your choice would be the remembrance of him. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.