RAYMOND NORBERT KASUR

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RAYMOND NORBERT KASUR

It is with deep sadness that the family of Raymond Norbert Kasur announces his sudden passing on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the age of 84.

Ray's greatest pride was his family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Joyce, sons, Dale (Diane) and Dean (Patricia), and his beloved granddaughter Vittoria, whose accomplishments he proudly shared with anyone who would listen.

He was predeceased by his brother Ken Kasur, his parents, Elizabeth (Ochs) and Leonard Kasur, and his nephew Rick Kasur.

Ray was born on February 27, 1941, in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, where he grew up on the family farm - an upbringing that shaped his work ethic, sense of community, and lifelong appreciation for open space and nature. At the remarkable age of 16, he left home to attend Concordia College in Edmonton, focusing on marketing and sales, fields that would define his professional path.

Ray began his career with Macleods Hardware in 1959 at just 18 years old. Over an 18 year career, he excelled in numerous roles, ultimately becoming the electronics buyer. His work took him across Canada and internationally, where he set company records for time spent on the road and for setting up the greatest number of stores. Ray's natural leadership, determination, and charisma paved the way for a remarkable career that continued with Fournier Furniture for another 18 years, where he rose to Vice President. He later joined Buhler Furniture as National Sales and Marketing Manager for six years before completing his professional journey as a respected consultant in sales and marketing.

While managing a Macleods store in High River, Alberta, Ray met the love of his life, Joyce, who was working as a nurse at the local hospital. They married in Calgary on June 10, 1967, shortly after Ray was transferred to the Macleods head office in Winnipeg. Together they built a beautiful life, beginning in Crestview, then moving in 1980 to their dream home in Charleswood. Ray cherished the wide-open lot, which reminded him of his farm roots, and the home quickly became a gathering place for friends and family. Ray loved to host, laugh, joke, and create moments filled with warmth and joy.

In 2006, Ray and Joyce moved to the retirement community of Meadowbrook in Sanford, later returning to Winnipeg in 2020 to a 55 plus apartment community. Everywhere they lived, Ray built friendships that lasted decades. Many of these friends became like family, and Ray cherished each relationship deeply.

Ray had a remarkable ability to bring people together. From hockey rinks where his sons played sports, to backyard gatherings, to spontaneous visits with neighbours, he forged connections everywhere. Known for his humour and competitive spirit, he famously remained undefeated in his favourite game, 3/5/7, always placing small bets and always keeping everyone laughing.

He also dedicated time to his community, volunteering with MacDonald Services for Seniors and supporting the Sanford Legion, both organizations that were important to him.

Among the many gifts Ray left behind is a memoir he created for his family, titled "Moments in Time". In one of the final paragraphs, he wrote: "If I had the choice to do it all over again, there would be little I would change. The biggest joy of my life is when I met Joyce and we were married." This sentiment reflects the heart of who Ray was - a devoted husband, father, Papa, and friend whose life was rich with love, gratitude, and unforgettable memories.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many doctors and nurses who supported Ray through years of knee surgeries and to the compassionate staff at St. Boniface Hospital, especially nurse Jessica, who cared for him with dignity during his final days.

At a later date, a Celebration of Life will be arranged for friends and family to share great memories of Ray. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local Legion, an organization Ray supported deeply.

Ray touched countless lives with his kindness, humour, and generosity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2026