Johnson, Keith Raymond “Ray” born August 3, 1932, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 7, 2017. Ray is lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years, Mary, his five daughters, Corrine, Kim (Randy), Dianna (David), Joanne (Harry), and Kristen (Benoit), his grandchildren Christopher, Paddy (Kevin), Mimi (Chris), Josh (Keisha), Laura Beth (Richie), Seth (Carley), Taylor (Jessie), Adam (Cynthia), Connor, Keith (Darci), Tanya, Kyle, Jonah, and Pascale, and his great-grandchildren Summer (Dom), Ayden, Memphis, Wynter, and Livvie, with the next one expected soon. He also leaves to cherish his memory his sister and brother-in-law Karen & Chuck, his nephew/surrogate son Keith, and many nieces and nephews. Ray was incredibly proud of his entire family.
Ray had an insatiable passion for family, food, and travel. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends and thanked the Lord for every beautiful day he was given with them. He had a joke for each occasion and to get every party started. He was well known for saying, “If you can’t make yourself at home, that’s where you should be,” which put a smile on everyone’s face and made them feel welcome. Ray remembered all the places he visited by the food he ate – Jiggs Dinner and cod tongue and cheeks in Newfoundland, beef and kidney pie in England, and klub in Norway. At the end of a meal he would often declare, “My sufficiency has been suffoncified.”
Ray was a master carpenter and avid fisherman, interests he shared with his children and grandchildren. His hand-made furniture and toys will be forever treasured by us. There is a lengthy list of family homes, schools, and commercial buildings to his name, and he was forever working on renovations and projects. The smell of sawdust and lumber will always remind us of him.
Ray was always willing to help those in need. He was known to offer a home-cooked meal and a warm bed for the night, even to strangers. He was a generous man and would do anything for anybody.
We know Ray is making himself at home in heaven right now. We’re certain he is feeling better and getting back to doing what he loves - fishing, renovating, and spending time with family.
We are grateful for the care and compassion of the staffs of Penticton Regional Hospital and Moog and Friends Hospice House.
Ray’s Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen Anglican Church, 9311 Prairie Valley Rd., Summerland, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Smile Canada, 3760 14th Avenue, Suite 202, Markham, ON L3R 3T7, or to a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.everdenrust.com.