I remember the laughter, the joy of “The Hopton's”, because Ray and Karen were a unit and to remember one means remembering the two, and the love and joy they shared.  When you live a wanderer’s life there are a multitude of friends who enrich your life but Ray, his laugh, his joy, and his support those stuck with me.  I was only the daughter of Ray and Karen’s friends but was still seen and enveloped in their warmth.  Ray had a laugh that reached out and enveloped all those around.  It was inclusive and rich.  Those vibrations still hum.  Thank you for sharing so selflessly, your impact gave guidance on how to seek out those who bring joy.  How to fill the room with laughter. How to always rely on the promise of the smile.

Dear Karen and family,

Trudy and I were very sad to hear about Ray's death.  Our love and sincere condolences to you and your family.  We have so many fond memories of being with you and Ray in SA.  Ray was an excellent and respected MCO.  He also  made sure everyone in his presence enjoyed life.   We felt so reassured that you and Ray were diving with Avery, when she was learning.   That Thanksgiving turkey dinner at Margate.  Shoeless Dan in Ponto do Ouro.  It goes on. We are fortunate to have spent some good times together.  Love, Trudy and Dan

Lise, Coey, Danielle and I would like to extend our condolences to Karen and the family.  I was fortunate enough to work with Ray at the High Commission in South Africa and it was the high point of my military career.  He was a great boss, a good man, and even a better friend.  Still remember when he played a major role in my son getting his diving certificate.

Karen and family
We have so many fond memories of Ray.  He really could make you laugh.  When you spent time with him you knew it was going to be interesting.  He will be fondly missed by many.
Sally and Brian LaBrie

Fondly remember Ray from Mexico 1972-75.  Almost every Friday, Ray, Rick Voth, and I would go behind the Embassy to have roast pork tortillas and tomatillo sauce for lunch. With copious beer.  Good times...good friend.
Heartfelt condolences to the family.
Peace  my friend.  Go well.

Dear Karen,

Carina and I are so sorry to hear of Ray's passing.   While it has been a long time, I still have fond memories of Ray -and of you too -during my posting in Manila (mid-90s).  I always remember him as a jovial spirit who embraced life -whether it was the Thanksgiving weekend trip to Puerto Galera, Four Winds Softball games at the American compound, or Friday Pub nights at the Embassy.    I remember him as a good man - a happy man.   From his obituary, it seems he enjoyed life after the service, too.   Again, I am so sorry for your loss and we wish you the best in this difficult time.   

Take Care,
Bob and Carina Ebrahimzadeh

My sincere condolences to Karen and family.  Have many fond memories of Ray during my time in South Africa.

Thinking of you Karen during this very sad time. Ray will be missed by so many. My deepest sympathies.
Darlene

Dear Karen and family

Our thoughts are with you on the passing of our dear friend and colleague Ray.  So many good memories of our times together at DFAIT and at play.  After retirement you and Ray invited us to “see what winters were like in Desert Hot Springs”.  We loaded up the camper and stayed for 5 years.  Life can leave us far too quickly.  Karen you devoted every minute so lovingly caring for Ray when he needed you the most.  He was truly blessed to have you by his side all these years.  We are thankful we were there to say “see you later my friend”.  We know Ray is sitting in the “porch of heaven” with his porch buddies raising a glass of rum and coke.  Karen, find strength in knowing Ray is at peace and remembering all the good times you shared together.  Lots of love, Ron and Sue

Karen and family, it was a shock to hear this news and you have our deepest and heartfelt sympathies.

Ray was the type of guy everyone wanted to have as a friend and to have at any party!  And Karen, you were his perfect complement.

We shall never forget the farewell party you and Ray hosted for us when we left Manila, nor all the diving weekends, Friday night socials at the Embassy and all the other great times spent floating in the pool!

Party on in Heaven Ray (make sure there is lots of ice) and we will hoist a few in your honour! ❤️❤️. 

Until we meet again,

Bud and Wendy Pauze

Karen and family, sorry that your time together after your trip to Hawaii was so short. I remember Ray and other husbands watching us dance on the theme nights at Catalina Spa. They seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as we did line dancing. May your memories and every time you have a drink remind you of Ray and the good times together. 🥰

Dear Karen and family:  We were so sorry to hear that you lost your dear Ray.   Ray was a strong man who met many challenges the last few years head on and with you by his side always kept on enjoying  life .  Our Kelowna trip that Arlene and I stayed with you and Ray was one of  our favorite times..  You and Ray were the perfect hosts and he made sure we enjoyed cocktail hour every day.  Such a great time.   Karen embrace all your memories of your life together , they will be of comfort in the days ahead.  Love and hugs.  Faye and Terry

Dear Karen and Family:  

We will remember Ray for his strength and determination. 
His love for family, life and travelling.
For his dedication to Global Affairs  and  ( his assignments around the world) and the many friends that he met and cherished along the way. 
For the great life stories that he told and the great memories he has left behind. 

We will miss you Dearly Ray ❤️

Karen:  May you find peace and comfort in all the memories that you shared together.  Sending our Love.

Susie (Karen’s Sister & Family), Ontario

How can one write a memory about Ray? We all have dozens and dozens. I worked with Karen at the Arnprior  hospital. She and Ray got together there. They were posted to Athens and myself and a couple of friends went to see them. They treated us like royalty then coincidentally my husband got into external affairs and we were posted with Karen and Ray in Manila. So much fun. They are both so kind and generous and funny. The best hosts. Ray loved doing his imitations of sign language under the water. When they were posted to LA, we visited them there as well. Ray had bought dozens of cases of Filipino rum with him. It’s funny to see in the photo that he is not holding a Rum and Coke .  I know he is in heaven, hosting a party and telling tales and keeping everyone entertained. My condolences to Karen and Ray’s family. Cheers my friend. Elaine.

We will miss Ray and the laughter so much.  He taught us so much about determination, friendship and the healing power of laughing. We love you, Karen.

Karen & Family
So very sorry to learn of Ray’s passing. 
Thinking of you at this very difficult time. 
Always enjoyed our visits with Ray!
Cherish all your Wonderful Memories. 
Cheers to You Ray!!
    With Love & Hugs 
    Tammy & Fred xo

Dear Karen - You have been in our thoughts very much and we’re so sorry to learn of Ray’s passing. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We wish you all peace and comfort. Sending much love to all, Patty and Fred

Our sincerest condolences.  May the memories you hold be a small source of comfort at this time.  Ray was a character, so full of life.  It was our privilege to have met him and know him for the short time we did.  Sincerely, Bernie & Shirley Parchoma

OBITUARY

Raymond Irwin Hopton

July 7, 1949 – March 28, 2024

First Memorial Funeral Services

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