Obituary of Raymond Howard Wasson

PER ARDUA AD ASTRA 

It is with immense sadness and sorrow to announce the passing of Raymond (Ray) Howard Wasson on March 31, 2024 at the age of 87, surrounded by family. Ray was born to John and Clara Wasson in Lindsey NB, May 1, 1936. He shortly moved to Saint John where he completed his schooling, briefly worked at the Saint John Dry Dock before commencing his career with the Canadian Armed Forces.

This is a loss felt by many; in particular, the love of his life, wife of 64 years, Barbara (Saunders) his daughters Shelley (Jack) and Susan (Tim). Cherished Papa to Matt (Tasha) and Spencer, Big Papa to Maverick and Malaya.

Survived by his brother James Wasson (Ivy), sisters-in-laws Pam Wasson, Margaret Wasson, Gail Mabey, Norah Mawhinney and Nancy Saunders, beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews and close friends. Predeceased by his parents John and Clara, brothers Gerald (Olive), William (Clarise), Kenneth and sister Bertha (Paul) as well as his in-laws, Harry and Helen Saunders, Mae Saunders, and brother-in-laws David Mabey, William (Benny) Saunders and Ron Mawhinney. Ray’s spirit is now reunited with them, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Ray devoted his career to the Canadian Armed Forces for 30 years proudly serving the Air Force in France, Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia and several postings in New Brunswick, lastly at CFB Gagetown where he later retired. He was an active member of the Carleton Union Lodge No. 8 Masonic Temple as well as a proud and committed member of the Luxor Shriners of Saint John. Ray was a Royal Arch Mason with The Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons during his time in The Annapolis Valley of NS, as well, the Master Mason Centennial Lodge 53 in Oromocto NB. Ray was A member of the Westfield Golf and Country Club as well as the Thursday Vegas Veterans Group where he enjoyed weekly camaraderie and fellowship. You often found him selling 50/50 tickets at the Sea Dogs games in Harbour Station or handing out roses to the ladies as they disembarked the cruise ships that visited Saint John where he and Barb volunteered for several years.

Ray loved a good game of hockey; in his spare time he refereed for many years, good bad or ugly calls he would say. His passion was golf, this became his Monday to Friday calling upon retirement. As much as he hated the ball at times; he loved the game. Ray had an enthusiasm for the movies, at the theatre or at home, the tv was always on. He also loved food; famously known for his spaghetti recipe and family dinners but always up for an outing trying different local cuisines when friends and family called; his response was always “Make It Happen!”

Ray was known for his wit and his one liners; his favourite ones, Bob’s Your Uncle, Make It Happen, Big Time, How Sweet It Is, Not A Problem and Too Easy were a daily chorus for many years.

Ray’s journey on earth may have ended, but his light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

The family would like to thank the medical teams who supported Ray with exceptional care the last year at Bobby’s Hospice, 3BN at Saint John Regional Hospital, Ridgewood Veterans Wing, Veterans Affairs Canada, NB Extra-Mural, Saint John Medigas, Bayshore Home Health, With immense gratitude to Dr. O’Brien, Dr. Mackin, Dr. Love, as well as the special care and support provided by Heidi, Krista, Nancy and Ed.

Arrangements are under the care of Castle Fallsview Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave, Saint John, NB E2M 2L3, 506-634-1701. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 4, from 11:00 AM – 1:15 PM, with a Masonic Service taking place at 12:00 Noon, followed by a Royal Canadian Legion Branch 69 Tribute Service. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 PM on Thursday, April 4 in Castle Fallsview Chapel. In lieu of flowers donations in Raymond’s memory can be made to Bobby’s Hospice or a charity of the donor’s choice.