Ray Conrad Harmer

Ray Harmer, aged 71, peacefully passed away at his Houston, TX home on May 3rd, 2024. Born on December 22, 1952, in Minneapolis (Edina), Minnesota, Ray is survived by his beloved life partner of 30 years, Marie Turner, his daughter Lindsey (Antony) Messerli, their children Addison, Luke, and Dylan, and his son Blake (Hope) Harmer, along with their children Rowan and Ryker. Additionally, he leaves behind his brother Randy (Linda) Harmer, sisters Nanci Amolsch (Brian), and Ramona Porter, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Marilyn Jean Amolsch and Ray Porter.

A plumber by trade, Ray worked in construction and owned his own plumbing business before joining the City of Houston, Public Works Department, as a Construction Building Inspector in 1994. He was promoted in 2008 to the position of Multi-Discipline Inspector, a position he held until his retirement in 2014.

Ray was a proud member of the U.A. Plumbers Local Union 68 for 46 years, where he made many lifelong friends and enjoyed the Union’s many benefits and events. He was also a member of IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) and a member for 22 years of ASSE International (American Society of Sanitary Engineering), where he also served on the Board of Directors.

Ray had a kind, friendly, and very outgoing personality and never met a stranger. He always had a big smile and was a friend to all. He thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of life—his family, pets, music, playing bass guitar in various bands (Polaris), and attending festivals of all types. He and Marie traveled extensively statewide, throughout the U.S., and worldwide. They enjoyed many cruises, especially the Elvis cruises sponsored by Graceland, with many of Elvis’ original band members, backup groups, performers, close friends, and co-stars. He also enjoyed relaxing at his country home at Lake Somerville, Texas, and the many close friends he made there.

Ray was well-liked by so many, and the family thanks everyone for their outpouring of love and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The James Burton Foundation, which supports music education for those in need through guitar donations and music instructions to schools, hospitals, and community service organizations.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

https://www.jamesburtonfoundation.org/