Ray’s family are sadden to announce the peaceful passing of our cherished and loving Husband, Dad, and Poppa at the age 73 on Monday January 19, 2026 at the Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, Orillia. Ray is survived by his beloved wife JoAnn (nee Oesch) of Coldwater, his children Courtney (Nathan Harbridge), Trent (Lateasha), and Troy (Kym Valiant), and by his grandchildren Colton, Lark, Sawyer, Livia, Bryson, and Ivy. Brother-in-law of Jack & Margaret Oesch, and Mary Lee Oesch. Will be missed by his niece Cheryl Smith (Corey) and by several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Jean & Jack Smith, his sisters Gloria Yeo and Darlene Sharpe, his brother-in-law Earl Yeo, and by his niece Denise Geotz.
Ray was a longtime manager of the Coldwater Arena, loved playing drums especially with the Little England Band, loved old cars and in his younger years enjoyed playing hockey and ball.
Following cremation the family honoured Ray with a celebration of life at the Coldwater Legion, Coldwater on Saturday January 24th from 1-4pm, with memories being shared at 2pm. Also in the spring or summer a celebration of life will be held in Listowel.
As an expression of sympathy donations in memory of Ray may be made to the Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation or to the Listowel Hospital Foundation, and can be made through the Coldwater Funeral Home, Coldwater (705-686-3344 or 1-888-645-5485).
Friends are invited to send condolences to the family at www.coldwaterfuneralhome.com
