Raymond was a native Californian, born September 22, 1925, and raised in San Francisco by Irish immigrants, William and Honora. Raymond grew up with brothers Charlie, Larry, Bill, Jack, and sisters Eileen, Noreen and Eleanor, whom he loved dearly. A 49’er faithful to the end, a SF Giants loyal and a Golden State Warriors fan, he took his sports seriously and cheered on his home teams regardless of what city he called home.
Raymond married the love of his life, Viola McPartland, on May 28, 1950, with whom he would spend 55 years until her passing on April 26, 2005. Together, Raymond and Viola raised a family of 5 children, Tom, Peggy, Joyce, Mary & Barbara. He worked tirelessly to provide a loving home for his family. With Viola, Raymond taught by example, instilling a love of God, loyalty to family, and a strong work ethic in each of his children. The legacy would continue from his children to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom he loved fiercely.
Among his many memorable qualities, Raymond never met a stranger. He was often the life of a party and always left with more friends than he began with. Throughout his lifetime he befriended his children’s friends, many of which would visit the family simply to hang out with him. He was a beloved father-in-law to his children’s spouses, who treasure their relationship with him. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and his ability to incorporate a song into any conversation.
Raymond, a WWII veteran, was very proud of his service in the Navy. He rarely spoke of his service and often downplayed his contribution, but his family shared his pride in his service to our country. One of the highlights of his life was to participate in the WWII honor flight in 2015, joining other WWII comrades as they visited memorials while being cheered on by locals. Raymond would eventually move to the Fresno Cal-Vet Residential facility, a place he loved and considered his home in his final years.
Raymond is survived by; son Thomas McPartland (Annette); daughter Margaret "Peggy" Maxwell; daughter Joyce Newton (Craig); daughter Mary Anne Whittle (Alan); and daughter Barbara Wigney (Tony). Raymond also leaves 12 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren to cherish his memory.
Raymond was preceded in death by his wife Viola McPartland; son-in-law James Maxwell; 3 sisters; and 4 brothers.
Serving as Pallbearers are Craig Newton, Alan Whittle, Tony Wigney, Gina Wigney, Katie Wigney and Chris Farner. Honorary Pallbearer Thomas McPartland
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Central Valley Honor Flight, contributions in Raymond's memory may be made to Fresno Honor Flight, https://cvhonorflight.org.
Due to current COVID19 restrictions, Services will be private. A Celebration of Life will be planned in the fall with details to be announced at a later date.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.boicefuneralhome.com for the McPartland family.
