Wednesday, September 2, 2020
My heart felt condolences to Rays family and friends on his passing. About 50 years ago now I was a little boy growing up at 827 College Avenue in Winnipeg. As with most little boys and girls, life had it's share insecurities and uncertainties. For me however, there was one thing that could be counted on without fail. That is the smile on my face when Ray came over to my house. Ray always had a huge smile in return for me. Always acknowledged me with a friendly "Hi John", while looking nowhere but right at me with those friendly eyes and his genuine heart. Occasionally Ray came with a treat for me, and without fail that treat came with a friendly conversation during which I had his undivided attention. 10 year old boys never get that from an adult unless they're in trouble! I was special.
Now that I'm more or less grown up, occasionally I like to look back and consider the influencers of my life. I like to think that I carried forward into my adult years a small measure of the kindness, the patience, and the thoughtfulness showed to me by Ray in those early years. How such innocuous little gestures can mean so very much to a little boy. For that and more Ray, I am eternally grateful.
Ray some day we'll meet again. We'll pick up again on those talks about my school, friends, and everything else. But Ray, one other thing....when we do meet again, please bring that sweet white car you had. You can take me for a ride in it again. Yes we'll even take it through that super cool automatic car wash again, just for old times sake. Ray this time I promise, I'll remember to close my window. :) Love you always Ray.
John Nowak
Ottawa
