Ray Banks Palmer

Palmer, Ray Banks

Our beloved Ray died peacefully at home with his family by his side on February 15, 2021 at age 91. He lived a long and full life, centered around the beautiful family he loved with all his heart.

Ray was born in Blackie, Alberta on November 24, 1929. Grandma named him Ray because at birth he was rushed to Calgary for medical care, and she said if there was a “ray of hope” they had to try to save him. He lived in Arrowwood before settling in Calgary where he met the love of his life, Christina (nee Stegelmann) at Western Canada High School. Their marriage in 1955 is one of the greatest love stories of all time.

Ray and Chris owned Raemor Hardware in Marda Loop from 1952-1988. Residents of South Calgary remember shopping for their hardware needs. Children who grew up in the area have fond memories of the magical Toyland downstairs. Ray was highly involved in Calgary’s business community, co-founding the original Marda Loop BRZ.

Ray was passionately involved in recreation, serving as Commodore of the Calgary Canoe Club and the Canadian Canoe Association. He loved the wilderness and enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and canoeing, including paddling the Yukon River from Whitehorse to Dawson City with a good friend in 1989. Ray always had tales to tell of his adventures – at times perhaps somewhat embellished. The family loved summers spent at Mara Lake and at their place in Sundre where they golfed, sat around the fire with friends, and scouted for the wild horses Ray loved. Ray and Chris took refuge in Hawaii from Alberta’s cold winters for 55 years in a row, forever captured by the spirit of Aloha.

Above all, Ray’s greatest love was his family! He is adored by his beloved Chris; three daughters Karen Palmer (Peter), Debra Morgan (Darcy), Sandra Bourque (Brian); grandchildren Cassidy, Tealia, Jaime, Ty, Mackenzie, Taylor, Lane; great-grand-children Morgan, Cove, Emery, and newborn Riley.

We profoundly thank and appreciate Ray’s remarkable family doctor, Dr. Brendan Vaughan, for his many years of compassionate, wise, and loving care. His sage guidance and good humour kept Ray ticking to a ripe old age. Special thanks to Vytality at Home caregiver Shreejana, Rachel Levant (OT with AHS), the amazing EMS teams who faithfully supported us at home, and AHS-affiliated care providers who together did their best for Ray in these unprecedented times.

Ray’s ashes will be scattered in his favourite places. “Aloha ‘Oe, farewell to thee, until we meet again.”

Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.edenbrookcemetery.ca or via kpalmer@sfu.ca.