Loading...
O
The family of Ray Arsenault uploaded a photo
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
/tribute-images/4873/Ultra/Ray-Arsenault.jpg
Please wait
T
Trudy Salven posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Dear Bette and Family: I heard about Ray's passing with great sadness, as he was a unique person, who gave so many such great joy. I worked with Ray on a series of commercials for Dow Ale, "Wouldn't A Dow go Good Now?" and he was amazing and wonderful to me during the shoot. I was new to commercials and he walked me through and gave me confidence when I was lost. I envy Adrienne having a Dad like she had. I'm glad I was blessed to know him. I hope you are all remembering your treasure from the Lord. Now, He's taken him back home. God bless you all, Trudy
D
Diane and David Gilday posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2006
Dear Bette, We were so very sorry to read of Ray's death in the press. What a remarkable career he had which we were well aware of at the time, and so well documented in the Globe today. And what a remarkable person to have as our very first neighbour in Toronto. David and I remember a lot of ruunning back and forth across the field between the townhouses many years ago when the children were around three years old. Those were happy times for our family and in particular because of knowing you and Ray, and of course, the Strasmans. Tell Adrienne that she has a loyal fanclub among all the Gildays who are always delighted and fascinated to hear her "in the field" reports about some of the most signifigant foreign news in the world. I am sure that the days ahead will be very sad for you both, Bette, but David and I wanted you to know that we are thinking about you and remembering the wonderful welcome that your family gave ours when we first came to Toronto. We will support the Sick Kids Foundation in Ray's name. Yours, Diane
K
Kevin & Kimberley Dollimore posted a condolence
Monday, September 11, 2006
Dear Bette,Adrain and Mary: How blessed you have been, to have Ray in your lives and how blessed we have been to know him, though for only a short period of time. My daughter Kimberley and I got to know Ray very well when he worked at our company Hewlett Packard Canada for approximately 1 1/2 years. Always a smile on his face and a big greeting "Hi how are you?" To my daughter Kimberley, he was particulary a strong influence in her life as she is very much into the Arts and theatre. He told us about his past life and his many experiences and the people who he knew and worked with through out his life. He was her mentor in many ways and counciling her on directions she should take to develop her talents. Always encouraging and positive towards her, a person whom she will never forget and was quite saddened when she heard of his passing. "He was such a nice man" she said to me and "I am sure he is in heaven"! So proud was he of both his wife and daughter and told me of his great love for you Bette. Adrian, he gave my daughter a picture of you beside a young girl in Iraq during your initial visit to that country (Kim still keeps it close bye) and although he was always concerned for you, he said you were a big girl and could take of yourself, but he always prayed for your safety. His pride for you had no boundaries. For me he was a good listener and coach (something he loved doing), but really what I enjoyed the most was his funny and loveable nature. A special human being! "Treat people nicely" he would always tell everybody "regardless of their stature in life" and I believe he himself lived up to that motto. We are both truly sorry, that we could not be at the reception, but more importantly, he was in our minds, hearts and prayers, and there he will always remain. May the void in your life be filled with the knowledge that Ray is still with both of you in spirit and at peace with the Lord. Kimberley and I are both honoured that he was a part of our life. Regards Kevin & Kimberley Dollimore 44 Vista Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L5M1C2 Canada
R
Robin Carnegy posted a condolence
Saturday, September 9, 2006
Dear Mrs. Arsenault and Adrienne, I was shocked and saddened to hear this news. Memories came flooding back of time spent on Balliol Street laughing it up with Ray and various family members. No father was more proud of his daughter than your dad was of you, Adrienne. I wish you both all the best in the coming months. Keep well and know that I'll be thinking of you often. All love Robin
K
Karen Elshater posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 6, 2006
Dear Arsenault Family: Ray was a very good friend during the time he spent working at HP. After he left our office for another position he would occasionally drop by for lunch and conversation.... My favourite memory is when Adrienne taught him a few words of Arabic....as he knew my husband was Egyption he would speak to me each morning in his "Canadianized' Arabic and I would reply with my limited vocabulary. One day he remarked that I was the only person who replied to him appropriately. He went on to say that when he tried his Arabic out on true Arabic speakers they always smiled and looked puzzled but did not reply in kind.... we had such a laugh when I pointed out that it was pretty sad when his arabic and mine was so poor that only the non-arabic speakers knew what was being said! I have long considered Ray one of my favorite people and his loss is a truly felt. My Condolences, Karen
N
Ned Baker posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 6, 2006
Dear Bette, I am so sorry to hear about your loss; My thoughts are with you and your family. Ned Baker
G
Georgia Sievwright posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 6, 2006
To Ray's family, I was truly saddened to learn of Ray's passing. He was one of a kind in so many ways. I met him at HP and we became fast friends. Early on he started sharing stories about Adriennes travels and adventures.. he was always so very proud ! I am General counsel at HP and Ray often coached me on presentations and style. One thing I won't forget was a note that he left in my office after I had received an award. I have kept the note and when my husband saw it he also wanted to meet Ray. My sincere sympathy to you .. God Bless Georgia
O
Ora Mae Rausch posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Jim & I met Ray while visiting his sister in MI. He was a funny & delightful man. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting him. On behalf of the family our prayers are with you.
K
Kirk Williams posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Adrienne and Family, My thoughts are with you as you celebrate the gift of your father's life. By all accounts he seemed to be a great man who left this world a much better place. He will live on in the memories of those who loved and were touched by him. Take care of each other. Kirk
P
Peter Bikaunieks posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Ray was a dear friend I met at IBM, who started me off in the film and television business. He taughted me to be on location before anyone else, to do what I said I would do, and not to spend more than I had. These are simple but lasting truths for all of life. Saw Ray last at Paul Southerland's memorial and am pained I couldn't attend his. My condolences to Ray's family. Peter Bikaunieks
D
Deanna Embury posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Dear Bette & Adrienne, I was so sorry to hear about Ray's passing. This must be a very difficult time for you both, please accept my greatest sympathies. I have many fond memories of Ray at Eagle Lake and think of him as someone who laughed with his heart. His generous spirit and ability to bring so much life to even the smallest of occasions was truly amazing. I also know that Ray
D
Dorothy Mack posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
I met Ray when he was at Hewlett-Packard. He had a very special gift with people - especially children. Forever more my youngest daughter will remember being greeted by Ray when she arrived at the office with me. "How lovely to see you - we've been expecting you." She stood two inches taller as she entered the elevator. And later she often asked about "the Cookie Man". (Ray had snuck her a cookie as we were signing her in). He was a very kind and sweet man, and will be greatly missed.
C
Carrol & Doug Van Steinburg posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Dear Bette & Adrienne, We were so sorry to hear of Ray's passing and want you to know that our thoughts are with you as you try to deal with his loss. Although we didn't know Ray well, we have wonderful memories of times we shared at Eagle Lake- Doug recalls him coming out of the lake at an Embury's party,as a shipwreck victim with snorkel and all; I remember at a party of ours his wild native costume and how much he added to the fun. He always seemed to have a twinkle in his eye and a zest for life. We know as well that he was a brilliant man who made a major contribution in his field. He'll be sadly missed by all whose lives he's touched. Fondly, Carrol and Doug Van Steinburg
S
Susan Walker posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss - the earth is a sadder place without Ray. I worked with Ray for years while he was an Intelligarde officer, stationed at Hewlett-Packard. He made me laugh and shake my head at his antics. He was a good man - so proud of Adrienne's accomplishments, interested in others and never did I hear a critical (other than when I was speaking) word from his lips..... he was a coach at heart. I often told him he should be teaching. We kept in touch on and off since he left Hewlett-Packard, and I am proud to have known him. He will be missed, I will miss him. Sue
D
Don Hutton posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
To the Arsenault family. I was so sorry to see of Ray's passing. 25 or more years ago, Ray produed and directed the first audio and later video staff training programmes for the former Canada Permanent Trust Co. I was privileged to be the script writer as well as being on-camera during some sequences, but more importantly to sit in the control room and watch Ray work his magic with complete dignity and charm. His job was made more difficult because all the 'cast' were employees of the company. I remember fondly the laughs and warm feelings of working with the great Rae Arsenault. One final thing. We had a tribute night to honour those who worked on the programmes. We gave Rae a whip. He had a laugh and so did we. He was a friend. Don Hutton
m
mark armstrong posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
It was with great sadness that I read about Ray and his passing, but just wanted to drop a quick note to pass along my condolences, and to say that I enjoy MY time with Ray as he worked in security and we chatted everyday about all kinds of things, and he even let me fix his beloved Camry a few times for him too. He was a proud man, and spoke often, of his family and how proud he was of the career his daughter was having. He WILL be missed.... Mark Armstrong Fleet Services
D
David Graham posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
I am an employee of Hewlett Packard where Ray worked for a while as a security guard. Spoke to him often as I entered or left the building. He showed himself to be a pleasant and caring man. The best way I can describe him was colourful! Boy could he tell a story. And every so often that military, macho side would surface. I always really wondered even at his age if he could take me out if he had to or wanted to. We kidded about that often. He so often spoke of Adrienne and his concern for where she was or what she was doing at any given time. I am a father with 3 daughters so knew exactly where he was coming from, My deepest condolences to Bette and the family. People like this leave large holes. May God's real peace be with you at this time, and may Ray's memories and the time you had him with you be a comfort both now and for the future. David Graham - HP employee
L
Lesley Parrott posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne, I was so saddened to read of Ray's death in this weekend's Globe and Mail. Ray hired me in 1965 as his secretary and broadcast production assistant at advertising agency Breithaupt Benson where he was Director of Broadcast Production. I was all of eighteen years old, freshly arrived from Scotland. I swear he hired me only because of my Scottish accent - I think Ray, as an American, rather liked it even though he could not always understand everything I said. Ray was truly an incredible boss. There was never a day went by when he did not thank me for my work and showed exceptional kindness and interest in my well being. He was an inspiring role model for how a true professional could and should conduct themselves. Ray was also clearly a devoted husband, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bette on the phone most days. I have rarely witnessed a father as thrilled and proud as when his darling Adrienne was born - long before it was acceptable for Dads to be as besotted as Ray clearly was from the moment Adrienne was conceived through every day of her talented life. Ray's passion, kindness and professionalism are qualities which had a huge impression on me and stood by me well as I built my own career. Unfortunately our professional paths did not cross again, but I remembered him with fondness and often talked of the impact he had on me. We had a delightful conversation a couple of years ago as we caught up on the highs and lows of our lives and was again engaged by his warmth, his wisdom and his incredible pride and caring for his Bette and Adrienne. To you both I send my deepest condolences, but know that so much of Ray will forever be part of who you are and his kindness and love will always be at the core of your lives. Fondly Lesley Parrott
K
Kimberley Dollimore posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
Dear Mrs.Arsenault and Adrienne, I met Ray, while waiting for a ride one autumn night, in the lobby of the Hewlett-Packard building. He was the security officer on duty that night and kept a watchful eye over me as it was dark and my ride was late in picking me up. Both being blessed with the "gift of gab" we started talking and our friendship continued from there. I hated my job and the only thing I looked forward to was seeing Ray when I walked in every morning. He always gave me a warm smile, ocassionally greeted me with a verse from a song (if nobody else was around) or a wink if he was busy signing someone in (how I loved the mischief twinkling in his "baby blues"). If I was lucky, I'd bump into him in the lunch line in the cafeteria or be able to sit down to eat with him. This helped me get through the rest of the day. We talked about so many things but we always gravitated to "what Adrienne was doing now". Adrienne, I'm sure that you know how proud your Dad was of your professional accomplishments. What touched me the most was that he admired you more for how you reached your goals. He talked about the integrity, compassion and humanity that you bring to your job. This truly made you a success in his eyes. Some people leave financial empires or great buildings as their legacy but Ray's will endure much longer. His gifts of love, kindness and laughter will be alive in my heart and in may others forever. My prayers are with you. God Bless!
J
Judi Ritter posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
My deepest condolences to the Aresenault family. I knew Ray as a sweet, generous, hard working director. In fact he was one of the first directors I ever worked with, and that was on "Trouble With Tracy" at CFTO back in 1970. Over the years, after I started working as a free lancer, Ray was there for me with a lot of work. He was always fun, and caring on the set and that is always how I will remember him. Judi Ritter
P
Paul Fazekas posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
Dear A My deepest sympathies go out to you and your mom at this time. I am sure all who knew your dad will be inspired by his life, and saddened by his death. You are in my thoughts dear A. Paul
E
Eve Savory posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
Reading through these warm and loving memories I laughed a little, cried a wee bit, and understood why Adrienne so adored her father. Adrienne, he must have almost burst with pride in you (as, I think, do all who count you friend). Any age is too young, for a man so full of life, with so much still to enjoy, to laugh about, to do. I know you will both miss him forever. I am so sorry. Love, Eve
J
James Aw posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
Dear Bette, So sorry to hear about your loss. Deepest condolences to you and your family. It sounds like Ray was a great man. Thinking of you during this difficult time. James
B
Bonnie Brooks posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne: I was deeply saddened at the news of Ray's passing. I was a member of the cast of Trouble With Tracy, which Ray directed. He was a sweet generous man who never uttered a harsh word. Every day his sweet face would light up the studio. I have so many fond memories of my days working with Ray. Also, I remember the day he brought Adrienne into the studio for the day, what a sweetie. I share in your deep sadness, he truly was a kind and generous heart. With Much Love, Bonnie (Brooks)
G
Glenys Sugarman posted a condolence
Monday, September 4, 2006
The FPA wishes to send its heartfelt condolences to Adrienne Arsenault on the sad occasion of her father's death. Our thoughts are with her and her family. The Foreign Press Association www.fpa.org.il
R
Ron Freeman posted a condolence
Sunday, September 3, 2006
I worked at CHCH-TV in Master Control when Ray was there with some other ex-Detroit personnel who were involved with getting the station organized for its sign-on in 1954. We were all pioneers in those days improvising as we went along. I am sorry to learn of Ray's passing and wish to convey my sincerest condolences to the family.
Y
Yehudit and Michael posted a condolence
Sunday, September 3, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne, Although Ray and I lived in the same city for many years, I had to move to Vienna before I had the privilege of meeting Big Shot. It was a great delight for me to travel with Ray and his crew through the German-speaking countries, to meet up with IBM customers, and at the same time to enjoy the beauty of the spring on our journey. Ray claimed that all the time on the road I only ate, but that was not true! I also slept, and talked, enjoyed Ray's stories, and shouted out when it was time for the van to turn left or right. One of the highlights of our trip was a short visit to Berlin. Ray met Yehudit for the first time and she presented us with a care package when we left, full of North American staple food to nibble on. I am still not sure who ate all the Oreo cookies but I do have my suspicions. ...me too...! Ray was always generous with his time and with sharing his knowledge. I learned so much working with him and learning was always a joy. I am sorry that we didn't get to work together again after this one project but it was a wonderful start to a special friendship that Yehudit and I will always treasure. Bette, you and Ray will remain our role models. We hope that we shall be as engaged in everyday life as we experienced the two of you every time we met. It's wonderful that you will be celebrating Ray's life, a life so full, and fullfilled. We, who stay behind for the time being, will always celebrate that his life touched ours. His spirit lives on, here in Berlin as it does in Toronto. Lot's of love from both of us, Yehudit and Michael, ...little shot...
S
Susan and Bill Mitchell posted a condolence
Sunday, September 3, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne: Please accept our sincere sympathy for your loss. We remember so many happy times with Ray at Eagle Lake. Most vividly is the Embury's party with the 'Famous Islands' theme. Most of the guests thought of quite clever ideas from 'Ellis Island' to 'Gilligan's Island' to 'The Staten Island Fairy'. However, Ray outdid us all. Who will ever forget Ray's spectacularly dramatic entrance as an escapee from 'Devil's Island'. There he was, crawling out of the water at the beach, dirty torn clothing, a 'blood stained' rag around his head, and dripping lake fauna. There was never a doubt about who would win first prize. We will always fondly remember Ray and thank him for the spontaneous smiles that come with the remembrance.
C
Christine ten Brummeler posted a condolence
Saturday, September 2, 2006
Dear Mrs. Arsenault and Adrienne, I am sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you at this time. Sincerely, Christine ten Brummeler SCS ('79-'83)
L
Leslie Uyeda posted a condolence
Saturday, September 2, 2006
To the Arsenault family: I did not know Ray Arsenault but as I am sure he must have been the father of the wonderfully gifted broadcaster, Adrienne, I would like to send our deepest sympathy to you at this sad and difficult time. Leslie Uyeda
B
Barry and Jane Smythe posted a condolence
Saturday, September 2, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne: News of Ray's sudden passing has shocked and saddened us tremendously. We both feel we had a special connection with Ray. Upon reflection we know we must be in the company of many others who felt similarly touched by Ray- for he brought his own joy in life, mischief, and interest in people to everyone and everthing he did. You both must be reeling with grief at the moment, and so we offer the only thing we can at this time which is that you are both in our thoughts and prayers. Our memories of Ray are all ones of great times at Eagle Lake when you would be visiting the Strasmans. In fact all we can remember is that when Ray was around we were always laughing - what a remarkable legacy that is when we consider the times we live in. The world needs more people like Ray and he will be greatly missed. Our last visit with Ray was last Thanksgiving weekend, when he knocked on our door as he was out for a walk.. and came in for an hour or more to visit with us. Every conversation with Ray included mention at great length of his beloved 2 women- Bette and Adrienne.. and what you were up to at the moment.. we know you were the centre of his life and his pride and joy. We will come to the celebration service on Tuesday, but in the meantime we wanted to reach out to you both. See you soon... with deepest sympathy and care.. Barry and Jane
J
Jim and Denise Knight posted a condolence
Saturday, September 2, 2006
We would like to express our sorrow for our cousin Raymond's passing. We are sure he is resting comfortably with our Lord. My father has many wonderful memories of he and Ray when they were just a couple of young guys. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. With much love, Robert & Lucille Grenier and Jim & Denise Knight
P
Paul Goyer posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Dear Uncle Ray: Wanted to take you down the Indian River into Burt Lake to see the sunset! You beat me to it....appreciate all your Love and concern. My love to Aunt Bette and Adrienne. Your nephew Paul
S
Steve Dunn posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Sorry to hear of Ray's passing. Remember him and Bette in the early days of CHCH-TV. Very talented and creative as I recall. I was on the crew when he directed and eventualy became a Director myself ending up teaching TV broadcasting at Mohawk College in Hamilton. Many of the things I learned from Ray were passed on to my students whose credits I see on a regular basis in TV. May he rest in peace. You are both in my prayers. Steve Dunn
G
George and Anne Bobrowski posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Dear Bette and Adrienne, We were shocked and saddened by Cousin Ray's passing. Thanksgivings will never be as wonderful without him. See you both soon.
C
Charmaine Edmund posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Hi Bette, I just wanted to express my sympathy over the loss of your beloved husband Ray. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Charmaine
P
Peter Jennings posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Bette: I learned with great sadness the news of Ray's passing. Although our paths have not crossed in recent times, my memories of Ray's fabulous talent, warm personality, generous spirit and fine humour spring to mind easily. Most importantly, Ray was a great mentor and taught me much about television production. At one point, we even talked about forming a joint production venture which, for a variety of reasons, did not come to pass but I've often thought how much fun we would have enjoyed had that occurred. Regrettably, I am unable to be there for his life celebration next Tuesday but I do want to express to you and Adrienne my deepest sympathies. Peter Jennings
D
Di Nyland Proctor posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Like Franz, I too remember Ray counting us into the beginning of a scene. I also recollect that when blocking a scene Ray would simply say why don't you just perch on the arm of the sofa. I guess he alway knew that at 5'1 (on a good day) if I actually sat back on the sofa my feet wouldn't touch the ground. In fact at the pace we worked with The Trouble With Tracy, there was no time for anyone's feet to touch the ground and Ray was no exception to this. What a schedule he managed to keep and what a joy it was to work with him. Under all that pressure there was never an angry word on the set. "Tracy" though never considered to be High Art was a time that we've all cherished as a time of great commraderie and friendship. From day one we became a family and though our family has gone separate ways over the years, the memories of Ray have remained so dear and his kindness and happy face remain as clear today as it was so many years ago. Bette, my heart goes out to you and I hope time will soon heal the hurt in your heart. Di (Tracy)
s
steve hurej posted a condolence
Friday, September 1, 2006
Bette and Adrienne, my deepest condolences. I understand the feeling of loss. I just recently lost my mother and my older sister. I've known Ray for my entire career in recording. I met Ray 34 yrs ago and in those 34 years, Ray has taught me a lot about this industry. His quick wit, great sense of humour always made for a wonderful session. Ray loved to direct, and you can be sure that he's organizing heaven for that perfect shot . I can just hear him now,"quiet please....ok,ON YOUR OWN QUE!". Ray, FRED of SAX as you commonly called me, will miss you. steve
J
John Mozas posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Bette - my deepest condolences. I know that everyone here at Medcan is thinking of you and Adrienne. I look forward to seeing you soon. John
D
Deb Brown posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
To my long but never lost friend, AD...I am thinking of you today. I just read about your Father and was instantly taken back to the fun times I shared with you and your parents at the cottage you rented long ago in Muskoka. Both Ray and Bette treated me like family from the first day we met and you all helped to ease the sting of losing my own father at the age of 19. Your strength and just the "Arsenault way" of absorbing all that this wonderful Life has to offer and to always focus on the best of times, helped me immensely back then and has never really left me. Life has taken us down so many different roads and our paths have not crossed in nearly 20 years, but I know when again we meet - it will be as if no time has passed at all. And that my friend is a testament to how you and your parents have always embraced all that is good in this World...even when faced with Lifes' inevitable challenges. So, although I will not be in town to hug you once again and see you at this time of reflection - please know I will be toasting Ray, under a Muskoka Sunset and feeling once again the warmth of his wonderful hugs. How blessed you and your Mom were, to have this wonderful Soul in your lives and as you once told me..."Those that are deep within our Hearts are never lost, for their memory and love remain here with us". love and hugs AD, "Downtown Deb Brown"
J
Joan Flood posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Bette and Adrienne - am so sorry to hear of your loss. He sounds like a real character who will be greatly missed. Will plan on attending the service on Tuesday. If there is anything I can do, do not hesitate to call. Joan 416-938-8948.
R
Ricki Glinert posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
To all of Ray's Family, For many years now, I've always smiled when I heard the name Ray Arsenault. I first worked with him at Ontario Hydro and don't remember ever having as much fun, or learning as much on one show, as I did with Ray. He built my confidence and taught me to be a better Producer. One of my favourite Ray stories, that I still tell, occurred when we were shooting at the Jewish Community Centre on Bathurst, near Finch. We had taken over several rooms and had our craft service table set up in the hall. Ray was waiting for the crew to finish lighting, when 2 elderly Jewish gentlemen came by. They looked at the gear and the food and immediately expressed their amazement to each other, in thick Yiddish accents. (Something to the nature of "Oy, look it at all this!") Ray immediately answered, in an even thicker Yiddish accent - "Oy, dese film people - such a megilla, and look at all the food!" I had to leave I was laughing so hard, while the 2 old men became friends of Ray's for the rest of the shoot. For years after Ray would phone me up, whether to hire me or just to gossip, and always started the conversation with "Chello Ricki" in a thick Yiddish accent. His accent was better than my Jewish parents. It was an honour and a privilege to work with Ray. Yesterday, when I heard of his passing, was the first time I heard the name Ray Arsenault and did not smile. My condolences to all. Ricki Glinert
M
Meenu Sahi posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Dear Bette, Our thoughts and sympathies are with you and your daughter during this tough time. Suniel and Meenu
T
Trevor Evans posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
May I offer the family and loved ones of the late Ray Arsenault my most sincere condolences on his passing. Ray was instrumental in my TV career getting off the ground. He acted as an uncredited mentor to me with words of encouragement, professional advice and occasionally by hiring me to work on one of his projects. He was an unabashed fan of my kid's show, KIDDO, in the '60's and whenever our paths would cross he would remind me of some nonsense I had perpetrated on the children of Canada. Believe me, we had many good laughs together. Ray was one of the pioneers of Canadian television and I am proud to say that I worked with him way back in 'steam TV'. I know you will miss him dearly. In fact he will be missed by the Broadcast world and people like myself whose careers were nurtured by him. Ray was a gentleman and a true professional and I will thank him in my prayers. Sincerely, Trevor Evans, (Retired director for Wayne & Shuster and former TV Clown.)
P
Peter Webb posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
To the family of Ray Arsenault, I was saddened to see in today's Globe and Mail that Ray had passed on. I'm sure you all take solice by knowing that he had a great career and helped many people along the way. My acquaintance with Ray was through IBM back in the 80's. At that time I was responsible for sales and service in IBM Canada so frequently I found myself delivering speeches, making presentations and filming video tapes. Ray was my coach. I always enjoyed working with him and found his advice to be not only very helpful but provided in a constructive and non threatening manner. I still have typed notes he prepared for me with tips and pointers. He often spoke with great pride about Adrienne's successful career and I have followed her progress over the years with interest. Congratulations to you Adrienne on all you have achieved. I know Ray will be missed by many. You are in our hearts and prayers at this sad time. Sincerely, Peter Webb
B
Barbara Thurston, SCS \'80 posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Adrienne, Mrs. Arsenault, and family - thinking of you at this difficult time. My prayers are with you all.
B
Barry Gordon posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Bette and Adrienne: I too am deeply saddened by your loss. Ray was a friend. He was a gentleman and a gentle man....and I shall miss him. Barry
F
Franz Russell posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Four, three, two, one Action. For those of us who had the distinct honor and fun to work on a daily basis with Ray, these words will be happily stuck in our memory. He was the director but also a friend to us. I had worked with Ray on a Sinutab commercial before we all started the "Trouble With Tracy". Ray and I traded stories about our daughters, Adrian and my daughter Brett nicknamed "Tepperman" after the demolition company. What fun! We also compared notes on how lucky we were to have married the women we had; Bette & Robin were elevated to there rightful sainthood during our many conversations over the years. Ray, even though we didn't talk as much in these latter years, I shall miss you "Poppin Fresh". Bette & Adrian,Robin and I send our love to both of you. He will be missed but not forgotten. Like you I loved him. Franz & Robin Russell
P
Phil Katsikas posted a condolence
Thursday, August 31, 2006
I am only now learning of Ray and some of his great accomplishements in his passing. It is only small comfort to you to know that his life has just reached more of us, offering inspiration. My condolences to you: his family and those who knew his greatness all along. Phil Katsikas, Vancouver, BC