Ray E. Richardson passed away on June 30, 2025.

Ray inspired us with his strength in overcoming AML (leukemia), Myelofibrosis, and a Stem cell transplant. He had the care of neurologists at Vancouver General and St. Michael’s, his Princess Margaret Transplant and Leukemia teams, as well as Dr. Kopolovic, who guided him every step of the way. Our dear friend, Dr. Paul Thistle, sifted through the test results and enlisted the help of family and friends to find answers. All parties’ persistence and skills, combined with Ray’s strength, added seven years to an action-packed life.

Ray’s life was a celebration of caring, love, and service. He dedicated himself to those in need through his involvement in the work of Rotary International. As a proud member of the Rotary Club of Whitby, he touched and saved many lives. His activities ranged from serving as an in-situ father for many exchange students to conducting fundraisers and navigating grant applications for projects that benefited people near and far. Owning Motorcity Mitsubishi also gave Ray a platform to support employees, customers, and his community. Awards and accolades were many, but these were secondary to his joy of giving.

Known for his ridiculous laugh, beautiful singing voice, athleticism, love of food, people, parties, and the Green Bay Packers. We will miss his trademark greeting, “Hi, I’m Ray Richardson”.

Ray was born in Campbellford, Ontario, to Aureen and Raymond Richardson and had one younger brother, Rick Richardson. His aunt Nelda and her family, as well as Cousins Dennis, Anne, Jan, and their respective broods, always provided support and love. His in-laws, Bill and Mae Nurse, and his aunt-in-law, Jackie Wellman, encouraged, supported, and loved him.

Ray cherished his niece, Barb Winter, her husband, Chris Fleetham, and sister-in-law, Mary Nurse. Countless neighbours and friends around the world continue to have a deep meaning for Ray.

At the Royal Military College in Kingston, lifelong friends were made, marching skills honed, football played, a Bachelor’s degree earned, and a commission into the Royal Canadian Navy. The stories told over the odd tipple would have everyone chortling.

In a military transfer from Esquimalt to Halifax, Ray stopped in Whitby and married his university sweetheart, Anne Nurse. They supported and loved each other on life’s winding journey. Their life together began at a vivacious pace that never really changed over the next 46 years.

Ray and Anne lived in many Canadian cities, collecting friends along the way. Ray attained an MBA, worked for TD Bank, DesRosiers Automotive Consulting, CML Industries, and owned a paper converting business. They then moved to Whitby and worked in the auto business, representing Saturn, until Ray launched Motorcity Mitsubishi. When Ray retired, travelling was launched. He loved being a nomad, especially with “the Have Ham will Travel Crew”. It was a wonderful gift of time.

His greatest joy was the children, Will and Andrew, and their partners, Mara Selanders and Emily Bordeleau Richardson. He knew that they shared his sense of global community responsibility and would continue to serve their communities with kindness and open hearts. He was proud of the men they became.

Thank you for the exceptional care from so many wonderful team members at Amica Taunton in Whitby, Walquiris, the Physio team, and the Nurses on the Supportive Care floor, Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Friends and family gave us strength.

Although it’s difficult to summarize a life, we hope that you remember some of the lessons he taught us. Life is precious. Help those in need. Live a life that lifts you and those around you. March on.

A Celebration will be held in the upcoming months. To receive notification, please fill out the following form by copying this link into your browser: https://forms.gle/5TZCBtJZQfA1ypzT6