Raymond Edwin Banks

Ray was born in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, England on February 7, 1937. In 2006, he immigrated to Canada and proudly became a Canadian citizen in December 2013.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Shelia Wilcox; his stepchildren, Trina Wilcox (Murray Salmon) and Clay Wilcox (Tammy); as well as his cherished grandchildren, Ty, Kylynn, Lila and Mack, all of Nanaimo. He is also survived by his lads, David (Amanda) and Andrew (Donna); nephew, Byron White (Sue); cousin, Phil Whitworth (Lynn); and dear friend ,Tony Cree (Irene) in England.

He also had a love of genealogy. It was a favourite hobby with over 50,000 registered people.

Ray was a man of curiosity, intellect, and adventure. He left school at the age of 15 and through hard work and determination rose to become a manager of an offshore gas plant in the North Sea, an engineer at heart, he applied his talents to woodworking, designing and building kayaks, small boats, bird houses, doll furniture, picture frames planter boxes and tool boxes. He loved photography and at one time had his own dark room. Ray was very knowledgeable with operating computers, Photoshop and short wave radios.

He had a passion for travel and visited more than 40 countries throughout his life. His Kenya safari and Tuktoyaktuk tour in Canada, standing out as favourites.

Ray will be remembered as a hard-working, clever, and loving man who left a lasting impression on those around him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. John Trepess and kidney specialists for the exceptional kindness and care shown to Ray.

He will be deeply missed.

HE LIVED

HE LOVED

HE LAUGHED

HE TRAVELLED

Ray was a kind and gentle soul.