He was born in Tucumcari, New Mexico in 1926 to Mary and Antonio Gonzales and later served in the U.S. Army.
He married Juanita Ruiz in 1954 and, after living in many locations while working for the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads, Ray, Juanita and their seven children settled in Tucson where he worked as a civil engineer for the U.S. Forest Service for almost 27 years.
Ray enjoyed cooking (and eating), the New England Patriots (before it was in vogue), boxing, all sports in general and jazz.
Ray is survived by his wife, Juanita; children, Ray Jr., Mike, Roque, Lynda, Judi, John and Robert; 11 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and, sister Gloria. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Antonio and brothers Pete and Benino.