Ernest C. Ray's Obituary
Ernest C. Ray Dec. 30, 1925 – March 29, 2009 Resident of Fairfield Ernest passed away on Sunday March 29,2009 in Fairfield CA . “Ernie” as he was known to his family and friends, was born in West Branch MI to Hattie Gussman and Adam Ray. Ernie lost his Dad at a young age and was raised by his Step Dad, Fred Krepps. Ernie joined the Marines when he was 17 and became an expert marksman. He was one of four Marines in his platoon to be assigned to the USS New Orleans as a gunner. Ernest married Margaret Parkin in Michigan in 1947. Together they had three Children. Margaret passed in 1978. Later he would meet long-time friend LaVora Wilson and they would share 11 years until her passing in 1990. Later he would meet Georgia DeTerra, and they would be together till his death. Ernie was a machinist instructor at the Alameda Naval Air Station until his retirement after many years of Service. He loved gardening, fishing, traveling and listening to Big Band Music. He was a lifelong member of The Elks and a life member of the VFW. Ernie is survived by his daughters, Trudy (Pete) Peterson of WI, Elizabeth Parks of WY, and son Jerry (Debbie) Ray of Fairfield CA, grandchildren Jeff, Kim, Reuben, Ian, Alexa, Ariel and Adam, and five great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held on Friday March 3rd 2009 at 10:00 at: Chapel of the Chimes 32992 Mission Blvd. Hayward Ca 94544, 510-471-3363 Interment to follow
What’s your fondest memory of Ernest?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ernest?
Share a story where Ernest's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ernest you’ll never forget.
How did Ernest make you smile?