Obituary of Ray Reid

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ray Iven Reid on December 24, 2013. True to his nature, Ray slipped away quietly in the early morning hours, leaving behind his sister, Elsie Risdahl (nee Reid) and brother-in-law Art Risdahl. He is also survived by a niece, Colleen Risdahl-Hamilton (husband David, great nephews Max and Jack) and nephew Allan Risdahl (wife Lorna). Ray was born April 5, 1948 to Holley and Alma Reid. Growing up on an active, working farm was full of challenge and fun. Ray loved his home, the people, creatures and the Camrose area; all were part of his being to his last days. He pursued many interests in his quest to make the world a better place; though unbound by geographic boundaries in his ideals, Ray remained a homebody in the Camrose area throughout his life. Growing up, Ray attended Sifton School where he excelled at building models and the odd mechanical prototype. He later went to Camrose Composite High School, where he played football and went on to attend SAIT for Agricultural Mechanics. Ray loved machines, particularly those that gave him freedom (beloved blue 1963 Fargo pick up truck!) and speed (440 Arctic Cat Skidoo). A large man, Ray's skidooing buddies nicknamed him "Tiny", as (true to character) he was never confined by his size. This trait translated to the dance floor as well… Ray loved to dance, pleasing his partner and the crowd at the Turkey Trotter's Ball one year in Rosalind, AB. Blessed with the mind to unravel the mysteries of math, science and healing, Ray always came back to his core beliefs in naturopathic, holistic wellness. To his last days, he remained true to this ideal. His good friends and his faith in God shaped his approach to daily life, and sustained him through difficult times... "Relax…it's all in God's hands". Ray was blessed throughout his life with many friends - we express our thanks to all who provided comfort, joy and company these last months, and a special thank you to the following for going above and beyond: · Gordon Pasiuk - childhood friend and constant companion… for your selflessness, patience, and love. · Rosehaven Care Centre and St. Mary's Hospital - to the staff and physicians that looked after Ray, our thanks for your care and patience during this last year of his life. "Love is not if and when, but just because…and then, again." A funeral service was held on Saturday, December 28, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. from the Burgar Memorial Chapel (4817 51 Ave Camrose) with Rev. Ken Grambo officiating. Interment has taken place in the Camrose Cemetery. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the charity of one's choice.