It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ray McDonnell on November 19, 2024, at the age of 87 years.

Ray was born on April 4, 1937, in Vancouver, BC to parents Leo and Katherine (Skipper) McDonnell. He grew up in Vancouver and eventually settled into a lengthy career on the Vancouver waterfront. Beginning as a long shoreman, working with Canadian Stevedoring he became a manager in the general cargo operations with BCR Marine. His many stories of working on the waterfront and various ships both fascinated and wowed us all.

He was passionate about all things sports related, especially hockey and baseball, he was a devoted Canucks and Blue Jays fan. Ray loved to play golf, curl, bowl and fish, a true sportsman to the end. Ray was also a master of the grill and prepared many a fine meal for family and friends.

Ray will be remembered as a sweet generous soul to all who knew him. An enormous heart and a witty dry sense of humour were two of his finest traits. He loved to sing and was never shy to share a song or two at the table. His rendition of “Danny Boy” was always a favorite as was anything Harry Belafonte!

Ray is survived by his loving companion and partner of forty years, Betty; stepdaughter Melody (Tom) Howell; stepson Mike Vandenameele, as well as a large family of nieces, nephews and friends.

His memory will live on with all who knew and cared about him, his was a life well lived.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.