Dear cousin. You are not forgotten and always mentioned in our my prayers.  Rest in peace and may all who loved you never forget.  Dee Dee

Ray, you are not forgotten . All who loved you keep you in their hearts always.  Rest in peace. Diana

I would never forget the day I met Ray, that smile that sticks to your mind once you see it. I don’t really know what it was, probably the fact that we both were born in the same land Venezuela. Even though I met him only for a short time I felt a special connection with Ray, something magical l cannot explain with words. He visited my restaurant La Arepa and asked to talk to the owner. I went to the Patio where he and Marissa were eating and introduced to them. He was so excited about my food and expressed to me all kind of compliments while eating my Reina Pepiada. I felt like I knew him for ever, it is difficult to explain but it was like he was meant to be in my life. I will always have him in my heart and forever remember his beautiful smile. I have the privilege of spending sometime with him the last couple of weeks before he passed and was able to tell him that I love him. He was very, very grateful for all the people who somehow showed him how much they cared for him and his family. Ray was a wonderful man a beautiful soul and had that special spark that Venezuelans have.  I will always love you my friend, keep shining above. 

There are so many things I can say about a great man, a very humble man, someone I had the opportunity to work with and also call my friend.  In my world of media sales, it can be very competitive and also can be very cutthroat.  Ray, never said a bad thing about anyone whom he worked with in media.  He always told me that "ideas are what sells" and he was an idea man.  I will always remember when Fresno State won the College Baseball World Series. Ray in his excited voice said "Its time to get dirty, lets get dirty"  His "Dine Out Along The Road" were masterpieces, and showed his true spirit and love of food.  I'm sad he's gone, I'm going to miss my friend, and my heart goes out to the entire O Canto family on his passing.  I will carry a little bit of the spirit of Ray and we should all carry a little bit of Ray as well.  

Sweet Ray. I remember when my mom said we were going to  grandmas to
Meet our new cousins from Venezuela.  Your mom is my mom’s sister.  You and your brothers and sisters were so small and shy but you ran up to me and gave me to biggest hug!  But it was your smile I’ll never forget.  It was so big your little eyes crinkled up.  I thought Omgosh this child will be someone special.  There is such joy in his face even after all he’s been through.  Years later we would cross paths at various events in town and never, ever, failed to introduce me to your colleagues.”  This is my cousin diana and she used to be a ballerina”. You made me feel so included.  But your smile Ray was just the same .  Full of joy.  May angels surround you with their love and may your loved ones rejoice in  the love you gave them.  Rest In Peace.  Cousin Dee

I met Ray through my sister Marisa whom he was dating. When we first me we clicked right away. Ill never forget Ray complimented me on my big earrings! He always had something nice to say and he quickly became my boo!lol that was my term of endearment for him and he cracked up everytime! Everytime we went out to dinner,breakfast or anywhere everyone knew him so we made a joke about how we cant take him anywhere! It was so cool beacuse he was always so humble. I miss you Ray ray until we meet again boo sleep in peace my friend.


Ray you have been in my life for several years and you became a huge part of the woman I am today. Since the first time I met you, you made me feel like I’ve known you my entire life.  You instantly became a close friend of mine & my family’s. We love you with all of our hearts ♥️ thank you for always believing and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. You always made us feel loved & poured your love & kindness into our hearts. You are a part of me & always will be. I love & miss you every single day. You would cook for us every Sunday & I have never tasted better cooking or enjoyed the best wine. All of the stories you would have about your life & traveling were always the highlight of our conversations. You will always be the most amazing & brightest light I’ve ever had the chance to know. I love you Ray & until we see each other next & toast in heaven keep an eye over all of us.  With the most love , Sonia 

RIP Ray.  Warren and I met you a few times  when we were with my  niece, Marisa who you were planning on proposing marriage when your divorce was final in October, 2019.  Unfortunately, you became ill  and your relationship could not be. God called you home to rest , and live in the peaceful beauty of heaven.   You will be missed but we know you have reached your final destination, home.  Warren & Maria Cory. 🙏🙏🙏🌹🌹

Memorial Mass

He is survived by his wife Denise O'Canto,  children, Diane O'Canto, Tricia Fung and Bryan, Nicole Leisle and Ian, Teryn Buchanan and Ryan, and his siblings Irma Lunsford and Scott,  Arienne Zweifel and husband Jerry, Michael O'Canto, Ann O'Canto, six grandchildren and his parents Jose O'Canto and Rosemarie.

OBITUARY

Raymond Jose O'Canto

15 April, 1959 – 14 September, 2019

Lisle Funeral Home

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