Raymund Arthur Burgess

May 10, 1943 - January 10, 2022
Ray's last attention seeking act was to pass away at the Penticton hospital at age 78.
In May of 1943, Ray was born at the Nelson Hospital. He came out loud and wanting to be noticed, behaviour he continued throughout his life.
Ray followed his mother Deannie Holland and stepfather Bill Holland of Nelson around the country as they transferred with the RCAF. While the family was stationed in Comox, Ray met his first wife Shirley Wagner who gave him three children, Jacqueline, Nichole and son Jordan. Sadly, Shirley died of cancer at a young age leaving Ray a single father. Ray moved his family to Kitimat where he worked at the paper mill.
One day he heard about an attractive young woman newly hired at the mill. He elbowed his way to the front of the line and married Margaret Miller. Margaret Burgess had no idea what she was in for. She found herself raising three young children. Four if you count Ray. The years flew by. Ray and Margaret added two more children to the mix with daughters Kyla and Morgan.
After decades of living in Kitimat, Ray and Margaret were able to move back to Nelson in 2003. What followed was a whirlwind of family celebrations, sailing, piano playing, weddings, grand kids (14), great grand kids (3), travel and making new friends. Ray's health began to deteriorate in recent years. They made the tough decision to move to Penticton in 2021.
Ray has left us with hilarious stories and great memories.
Ray was predeceased by scads of family. He is survived by a whack more.
Celebration of Life MAY 21st • 2:00PM Royal Canadian Legion402 Victoria St., Nelson, BC.
In lieu of flowers the family asks people to donate to Ray's favourite charity.
The Japanese Plum Bird Society.