RAYMOND SAJ

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RAYMOND SAJ
August 1, 1941 - September 13, 2019

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Saj, on September 13, 2019.
Ray grew up in Fort William, Thunder Bay as the oldest of 10 children. He enjoyed sharing his childhood years with his siblings in the family home on Minnesota Street and took great delight in their staple diet of Humpty Dumpty Potato Chips, Nesbitt's Orange Soda and Hires Root Beer. As the eldest, Ray started working at an early age to contribute to the family income.
Ray married his wife Judy in 1963 and their family quickly grew as they welcomed sons Gary and Rennie and daughter Kristie. It was Ray's employment as a semi driver with Canadian MotorWays Limited that brought them to Winnipeg. He later owned his own truck and drove for Penner International and Porter.
A strong work ethic, the role of provider and the value placed on solid friendships were all extremely important to Ray. This was obvious throughout his life from a young age delivering newspapers and groceries, to working at Twin City Bottling and driving a semi. Ray generously opened his home to any family or friends in need and enjoyed good visits with old friends.
There was no question that Ray was perfectly at home on the highway during his career as a semi driver. His CB handle of "Fort Knox" was the perfect alias to represent the pride that Ray took in the ability to earn and secure financial security through his career. He was a proud member of the Teamsters union and was honoured by Canadian Motorways Limited for his exceptional driving record. Ray shared his love for driving semi with his son Rennie with whom he was able to ride tag team on weekends for many years. The two enjoyed trips to Minneapolis, engaged in lively conversation and good food along the way. Although Ray loved the road, he was always on a mission to get home as early as he could to his family and would often host family barbecues. Ray's barbecue roast beef was second to none!
A huge thank you to the staff at Golden West Centennial Lodge for the exceptional care and understanding that quality of life means something unique to each person. Ray had his own plans for how he wanted to live out his life and you did your best to make it happen for him. A special thank you to Diane for the extraordinary kindness and care provided.
Ray is survived by wife Judy; sons, Gary (Heide), Rennie (Angie); daughter Kristie; granddaughters, Rhianna, Danielle, Jennifer and Miya; sister Lucy Cabel (Peter); brothers, Marvin, Julian, Boris, John (Lisa); and sisters-in-law, Leona and Cheryl; as well as many nephews and nieces. Ray was predeceased by his mother Anne; father Dmytro; brothers, Daniel, Edward, Andre and Walter.
As Ray wished, cremation will take place with no formal funeral at this time. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 17, 2019