Raymond Henry Magel of White Rock, British Columbia (formerly of Winnipeg), passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 with family and friends by his side. He was 94 years old.
Dad was born in Winnipeg on June 23, 1926 to Gottfriend and Rose Magel. He was five years old when his father died. Dan left school after Grade 9 to support his family by working for the Canadian National Railway. During this time, he attended night school and obtained his Grade 12. He then went on to become a teacher for the St. James-Assiniboia School Division. Dad spent several summers earning his bachelor’s degrees and later obtained his master’s degree. He became a vice principal and at one point was also principal of the St. James evening program.
Ray married his childhood sweetheart from down the block, Edna Pfeifer, on July 3, 1948 and the remained together until her passing in 1981. He then retired and moved to Vancouver area to be with his family.
Dad was a loving father to his children and their spouses and was indeed a father figure to many. He loved woodworking and created meticulously designed tables and sculptures. He loved to ply people with gifts and treats – especially his caregivers. He could be a shameless flirt, had a sometimes-shocking sense of humour, and maintained a positive outlook. One of his favourite mottos was:
“As you ramble on through life, brother, whatever be your goal, keep your eye upon the doughnut, and not upon the hole.”
Ray will be deeply missed by his children, Terry (Deena), Karen (Don), and Jamie (Demetry); his dear brother Ron (Chris); grandchildren, Tyrell (Megan), Tianna, Conlan, Taylor, benny, Adam and Zayne; his great-grandchildren, Chloe and Ella; his many wonderful nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Harley.
Ray was predeceased by his adored wife Edna; parents, Rose and Gottfried Magel, stepfather William Magel; sister Florence (John) Just; sisters-in-law, Ruth (Alf) Sander and Arlene (Mack) Nichol; and brother-in-law Ray Kaisler.
At Ray’s request, there will be no memorial service. Our special thanks to all the nurses and caregivers at Evergreen Community and White Rock Seniors Village for all their kindness and dedication.
We love you Dad. Thanks for all you have done to make our lives better.
Your legacy lives on.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Raymond Henry Magel June 23 1926 July 212020..
Death notice for the town of: Vancouver, Province: Colombie britanique