Raymond Andrew Chastkavich

It is with heavy hearts that the Chastkavich Family announces the passing of Raymond Chastkavich of Coquitlam, BC at age 71. Raymond died peacefully on March 2nd, 2023 in Maple Ridge, BC with his wife and sons at his side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Raymond was a devoted husband, father, Opa, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was born in Melville, Saskatchewan to Joseph and Margaret Chastkavich. He grew up on the family farm south of Melville near Killaly. Upon graduation from St.Henry’s high school in Melville, Ray chose to study electronic engineering in Toronto, Ontario. There he met and later married the love of his life, Brigitte Zeller. After graduating from DeVry Institute of Technology, the young engineer decided that the farm life was more to his liking and moved back to Saskatchawan with his bride of 6 months. After combining grain farming with farm implement sales and service for 19 years, he moved his family to the milder weather on the West Coast where he lived for 30 years. His focus turned to selling cars which suited him, as he genuinely enjoyed getting to know people and giving them a fair deal. Raymond enjoyed a good conversation and was always ready to engage in a debate especially where his passion for politics was concerned. He even ran for the position of MLA for the Liberal party in 1991, helping to upset the unpopular provincial Conservatives. Sports and his grandchildren were also his passions. His loud "YEAH!!" for his favorite teams (Canucks, Raptors, & Green Bay) could be heard throughout the house!

Raymond was predeceased by his parents Joe & Margaret Chastkavich and sister Lorraine Garrett.

Raymond leaves to mourn his passing and cherish his memory, his loving wife Brigitte, his three children Sarah (Roy) Lapa, Derek (Stephie) Chastkavich and Travis (Nimret) Chastkavich, his 11 grandchildren, Natalie Lapa, Emily Lapa, Rachel Lapa, Andrew Lapa, Neriah Chastkavich, Ellie Aron, Cohen Aron, Isaiah Aron, Zachariah Aron, Jade Chastkavich and Jaxon Chastkavich.

Those who knew Raymond will forever be thankful for his example of love, kindness, honesty, and loyalty. He will be dearly missed.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialportcoquitlam.com for the Chastkavich family.