Raymond Nobis

Raymond Stanley Nobis, age 67, passed away in the early hours of July 12, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 24, 1958, Ray brought joy, humor, and warmth to the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime.

Ray was a devoted father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his and Rose’s daughters, Kaelene and Nikky; his grandchildren, Theo, Jo, and Amelia (due December 2025); his mother, Joanne; his sister, Lynn; and his brothers, John and Dave. He also leaves behind many dear friends and a community of people who were impacted by his generous spirit and ever-present sense of humor.

Ray spent his working years as a quality control inspector, but his truest calling was caregiving. He had a natural instinct to care for others — whether through a kind word, a small thoughtful gift, or a shared laugh. He was known for finding just the right item at a garage sale that reminded him of someone and bringing it to them with pride and delight.

Ray grew up in Renton, Washington, and was incredibly proud of his roots. He loved showing his daughters around the neighborhoods where he spent his childhood, pointing out familiar places and sharing stories about being a paperboy and riding his bike through Renton and Kent. His memories of growing up in Renton were some of his favorites, and he carried that hometown pride with him his entire life.

Ray was well-known in the Des Moines, Washington, community, where he made friends everywhere he went. His lighthearted personality and big laugh made him instantly recognizable — whether riding his scooter in a bathrobe to QFC, greeting people at the ABC Market, or sharing candy and cheerful greetings with fellow residents and staff at SHAG.

He was a passionate fan of the Seattle Mariners, collecting baseball cards, coins, and he loved watching hockey games in Kent with his close friend Tom. Ray also had a deep love for music — especially Elton John — and was rarely seen without a tune in his heart or on his lips.

Though he faced significant health challenges, Ray defied expectations after a major illness 14 years ago and lived many more years than anticipated, giving his loved ones time they will forever treasure. At the time of his death we discovered he was battling an aggressive lung cancer. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his honor to the Lung Cancer Association.

His passing was sudden and unexpected, but his memory lives on in the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and the way he made people feel cared for and seen. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family is in the process of planning a celebration of life to honor Ray in the way he would have wanted — with warmth, laughter, and connection. His ashes will be released at the Des Moines Marina, a place he loved and that brought him peace. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized.

The family has set up a memorial fund to help cover expenses and a tribute to Ray. For more information see here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-expenses-honoring-ray-nobis?aiCoach=true