WILLIAM RAYMOND HOOPER "RAY"

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WILLIAM RAYMOND HOOPER "RAY" Friday, April 22, 2005, at the age of 85, Ray passed away peacefully at the Portage District General Hospital, Portage la Prairie, with his wife and daughters at his side. Ray will be lovingly remembered by his wife Winnie of 55 years; his two daughters, Lynne and husband Zenon Grzybowski and Kathy and husband Greg Chown; grandchildren, Shannon Grzybowski, Lesley and husband Joe Kozun and Adam and Laura Chown; and great-grandchildren, Nicole and Megan Kozun. Also left to cherish his memory are his sister Irene Wenham of Neepawa, brother-in-law Rev. Douglas Jacques and wife Nancy of Toronto and many nieces and nephews. Ray was born in Wales March 25, 1920. The family came to Canada seven years later and made their home in Bowsman, MB. There he received his early education and enjoyed many happy hours playing hockey and baseball. Ray chose teaching as his career. He and Winnie met at Normal School and in 1949 in Swan River, MB, married. They began their life together in Portage la Prairie and there, raised their family. During those years Ray continued to enjoy sports through curling, Liniment League and golf. A highlight each year was his trip to the Grey Owl. His career included teaching at Portage Collegiate Institute and the principalship of Prince Charles School. Retirement brought new interests and pleasures for Ray. He and Winnie travelled to Europe and Great Britain, rekindling his interest in his Welsh heritage. They also enjoyed trips to warm climates with good friends. Ray had a generous heart and gave of himself enthusiastically to family, friends, students and his community. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 28 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Mary's la Prairie Anglican Church, 36 - 2nd St. S.W., Portage la Prairie, with The Venerable Norman Collier officiating. Private family interment will take place at a later date in the Columbarium of Evergreen Memorial Gardens. As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Ray's memory to Lions Prairie Manor Foundation, 24 - 9th St. S.E., Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V4 or a charity of your choice. A tree will be planted and cared for in memory of Ray by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel who are in care of arrangements. 857-4021. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 26, 2005