It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Ray John Dafoe, who died peacefully at the age of 85 on May 21, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospice, where he was lovingly cared for in his final days. He was born in Port Arthur on July 18 th , 1939, and spent majority of his life growing up in Current River, where he and his beloved wife, Shirley, raised their two children Kerri and Barry.
Through his life, Ray worked over 30 years as a laboratory technician at Provincial Papers. He walked five miles to work every day, and even after retirement, he continued his daily walks for as long as his health allowed. He was a daily golfer at Strathcona, bowled ten-pin, and was a hockey enthusiast and trainer for the Port Arthur Mars. Ray had a strong passion for the Toronto Maple Leafs, which he shared with his family. He was a faithful member for over 35 years at Our
Lady of Loretto Catholic Church. Ray generously dedicated his time to serving his community, volunteering with the Dew Drop-In, Current River Foodbank, Christmas Cheer, Prostate Cancer Group, and was local President of the OPIEU.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Shirley, his daughter Kerri (Gord) Williamson, his son Barry, and his cherished granddaughters Kaitlyn (Evan), Ella, and Mya Williamson.
The family would like to extend a gracious thank you to Ray’s family doctor, Dr. Williams, his amazing caregivers at Wesway Respite Home, his Bayshore Home Health registered nurse, Joseph, and the doctors, nurses, and medical staff at St. Joe’s 4N Hospice. Your compassion and excellent care brought comfort and peace to him and the family in his final days. A special thank you to Ray’s friends at the condo, who have provided friendship, support, and assistance for the past 9 years. It truly meant so much to him and our family.
At Ray’s request, there will only be a private immediate family interment. In his memory, donations can be made to the Dew Drop-In or Current River Churches Food Cupboard.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.
