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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
KNOWLES, Raymond Allen (Ray) - was born June 13, 1949 in North Battleford, SK and attended school at Alexander Public and North Battleford Collegiate Institute. He was a good student and excelled at track and field events, bringing home ribbons and medals. He joined Boy Scouts at an early age and played football in High School, the NBCI Mustangs. At one point Ray learned how to play the bagpipes, which his mother was well pleased with. Ray's military training was in 1972-CFB Gagetown in Gagetown, New Brunswick, Again, Ray excelled at basic training, gaining 1st in his class, and earning him the right to pick his first military posting. He chose Calgary. Ray was a proud member of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry-The PPCLI. Later in his career he worked in Logistics, serving io HMCS Provider, which was stationed in Halifax. Ray retired June 2, 2001 with the rank of Sergeant and Master Sailor. His achievements are many and his medal collection extensive, including SSM-Special Service Medal; CPSM-the Canadian Peace Services Medal; CD1-Canadian Forces Decoration; UNEF-United Nations Emergency Force, Middle East, Egypt and Israel; Canadian Contingent United Nations Cyprus; United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda, Africa, serving 3 consecutive tours in Rwanda. Ray served a 4-year tour in Germany – 1984-1988; two Nato tours in Norway; served on both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans; Ray was a member of Lord Mount Batten's funeral parade in London, England; a member of the Parloff Relay Run from Victoria, BC to Calgary, AB, and the list goes on and on. Ray's retirement took him to Meota where he became active in the community, serving on Town Council, participating in the local curling club and attending the local coffee row. Ray enjoyed the community; he was happy and he was content. He appreciated anything he had and would comment, "life is good." Ray passed away on May 4, 2023 at the Canadian Forces Base in Wainwright, AB. The family would like to thank the members of the CFB Wainwright for their professionalism and care for Ray. Ray died surrounded by his military family, the family he devoted his life to, a most fitting end for a brave soldier. Ray is survived by his two sisters, Linda Startup of Trail, BC and Pam Knowles of North Battleford, SK. Ray was predeceased by his parents, Graydon and Rosella Knowles. Ray's life was celebrated on May 12, 2023 at St. Paul's Anglican Church in North Battleford, SK, officiated by Reverend Trevor Malyon. Tributes for Ray may be made to The Battlefords Human Society Animal Shelter. Arrangements entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service. "Take a breath…it will be ok. (The Battlefords News-Optimist 15 Jun 2023)
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