Ray Gasper

Born in Buffalo, New York, on August 13, 1924, Ray was the son of the late Albert Gasper and Clara (Mikowski) Gasper.

Ray proudly served in the United States Army during World War II, serving in the European Theater under General George S. Patton. His military service was a lifelong source of pride and honor. He served with Battery C, 567th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion, and participated in the Northern France, Rhineland, Central Europe, and Ardennes-Alsace campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge.

Following his military service, Ray embarked on a distinguished 40-year civilian career with the United States Navy, retiring in 1980. His dedication to service continued well beyond retirement, as he remained involved with the Navy for many years as a consultant.

Ray was a longtime and devoted member of St. Raphael’s Catholic Church in Rockville, Maryland. A deep commitment to helping others was woven throughout his life, reflected in his longstanding involvement with the Knights of Columbus and numerous church-related charitable activities. He generously gave of his time and talents to his church, community, family, and friends, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

An avid golfer with a natural swing and a lifelong love of the game, Ray found another kind of freedom high above the clouds. Whether navigating a challenging fairway or piloting his Piper PA-16 Clipper plane through the open sky, he embraced each adventure with focus, enthusiasm, and a steady hand. Golf and flying brought him tremendous joy and were enduring passions throughout his life.

Above all, Ray was a devoted and loving father and grandfather. Adored by his children and grandchildren, he offered unconditional love, unwavering support, and endless encouragement. Every phone call or visit with “Granddad” brought words of wisdom, reassurance, and his unmistakable pride in their accomplishments, both great and small. His family was his greatest joy, and his love will remain with them always.

One of Ray’s most remarkable gifts was his extraordinary ability to make and maintain friendships wherever life took him. Through his career, his church, and the many communities he called home, he built meaningful relationships that endured for decades. His friendships crossed generations, and he had a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Ray genuinely enjoyed people, took a sincere interest in their lives, and treasured the friendships he cultivated throughout his remarkable journey. The many lives he touched stand as a testament to his warmth, generosity, and genuine spirit.

Ray is survived by his four beloved children: Debi Gasper of Washington, DC; Nancy Walsh and her husband, John, of Wilmington, North Carolina; Edward Gasper and his partner, Tammy Jeannotte, of Wilmington, North Carolina; and Pamela Boland and her husband, Michael, of Bethany Beach, Delaware.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kathleen Walsh Wenzel and her husband, Richie, of Chevy Chase, Maryland; and Kelsey Boland, Brooke Boland, and Maggie Boland, all of Bethesda, Maryland.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ramona Kenneday deGraffenried Gasper; his sisters; June Gasper; Lorraine Fanase and her husband, Mike; and his grandsons, Michael McCarthy Boland, Jr., and Daniel Patrick Walsh.

A Celebration of Life, officiated by Rev. James R. Van Dyke, S.J., will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church in Rockville, Maryland. A burial service at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, 1513 Dunster Road, Rockville, MD 20854.