Raymond Moon

Ray leaves to mourn his wife of 58 years Linda, children Jamie (Dee), Shannan, and Steve (Mel), grandchildren Eric, Kevin, Ryan, Jordan, Mason (Megan), Ashley (Andrew), and William; in-laws Laurie and Ann Bush, nieces Carolyn (Dave), Kylie (Trevor), Karen (David), and nephews Dan (Tammy), and Eddie (Lijuan). He was predeceased by his parents Jim and Queenie (née Weber) Moon, and his much-loved older sister Queenie in 2017.

Ray was born in Pembroke, Ontario on August 23, 1941, where his father trained with a Kenora unit in preparation for WWII. Once his father was deployed overseas shortly after Ray’s birth, he moved with his mother and sister back to Kenora. Ray met his future wife Linda (née Bush) in late 1960 and they married February 27th, 1965.

Ray drove a school bus, and worked at Kron’s and the jail prior to buying Bill’s Shoe Box from his father-in-law in 1974. He took pride in selling a quality shoe, and always loved it when someone stopped him on the street, pointed to their foot, and told him they bought their shoes from him so many years ago.

Like the relationship he would later share with his mini-me, Mason, Ray was raised living with and copying his grandfather, Frank. Ray cherished his childhood memories of sitting with Frank, each with a pipe in the same hand (Ray’s was empty, of course). Half a century later, he delighted in taking on the reverse role with his grandson imitating him, right down to the details in clothes and pocket contents. Ray treasured those precious days of adventure with Mason, sometimes taking up to 15 years before admitting to the kinds of trouble they would get themselves into.

Ray had a gentle yet unwavering spirit and an extraordinary will to live. He received a new heart in May 2003. When he reached the 10th anniversary of his transplant, he reflected that initially all he hoped for was ten years of life with this new heart, but found himself hoping for 10 more years. He was granted that wish and celebrated 20 years of bonus time in May 2023 with profound gratitude and a big slice of ice cream cake.

He was consistent, reliable and a kind-hearted soul, remaining a steady pillar of support. Whether he was answering a phone call at a ridiculous hour when an upset grandkid needed something, or appearing seemingly out of nowhere, but at just the right moment, when you needed to be towed out of deep snow, he was always there when you needed him, and always happy to help. He instilled kindness, a strong work ethic, and a dark sense of humour in his grandkids.

Per Ray’s wishes, no service will be held. His family finds comfort in the idea that he’s likely making bacon and eggs for the family dogs who were waiting for him.

The family is thankful for the endless care and support Ray received from the medical field over the years. The family would like to especially thank Dr. Beveridge, Dr. Grek, Dr. Krahn, John Paul George, Jeff and Darren with the Community Paramedics team, and Dr. Giles and the nurses on the 3rd floor who cared for him throughout his stays over the last year. The family is deeply grateful for Dr. Dave Kyle, Charlene Melillo, and nurse Lexi, who made his last hours comfortable.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Moon family.