Raymond Edward Drabik

It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Edward Drabik “Ray” passed away peacefully on September 1st at Royal Columbian Hospital due to complications from chronic heart and lung conditions.

Ray is predeceased by his parents “Ted” and Mary Drabik. He is loved and missed by his wife of over 57 years, Ruth, his three daughters Marnie (Renn), Christina and Melissa (Barry), and four granddaughters, Ashley, Caitlin, Emily and Madeline.

Ray was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 17, 1944, and spent his childhood in Dauphin, Manitoba with special memories of fishing in Waterhen Lake, igniting his lifelong love of nature. His family moved to Vancouver in 1956 and shortly after to New Westminster. Ray studied Political Science and completed his Law Degree at UBC. He often told the story of first meeting Ruth at a wedding where she stood out in a beautiful red dress. He counted 1968 as one of the most memorable years of his life when he married his loving wife Ruth and was called to the bar to be formally admitted to the legal profession. During his 44-year legal career in New Westminster, he found satisfaction in helping others. He was particularly proud of his involvement with Access Justice.

After getting married, Ray and Ruth moved to Coquitlam where they raised their children and lived for 48 years before moving back to New Westminster 9 years ago. Throughout his life, Ray was a devoted father to his three daughters and “papa” to his four granddaughters. He enjoyed family time and vacations, especially trips to his beloved cabin on Lake Whatcom and cruises in his retirement. His passions and hobbies included cars, notably his 1967 Sunbeam Tiger, hockey – both playing and watching, boating, fishing, reading books and the newspaper, gardening and music (classic rock, opera and symphony). To those whose lives Ray touched, he will be remembered as dependable, loyal, empathetic, honest, learned and inquisitive, but above all loving and committed to his family. His granddaughters will remember his playful and goofy side, snuggles and love of dessert.

The family wish to have a private gathering to remember and celebrate Ray’s life. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation www.heartandstroke.ca or the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation at www.rchfoundation.com.