Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services

In Memory

Raymond (Ray) Allen Cumbers

December 10th, 1948 - September 28th, 2024
Raymond (Ray) Allen Cumbers

“Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.” – Unknown

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Cumbers. Ray passed away suddenly on Saturday, September 28 at the age of 75 years. He will be forever missed but never forgotten by his loving wife of over 20 years, Merle Cumbers; Ray’s daughters, Brandie (Clay), Carrie (Chris); grandchildren, Jori, Danika, Anniston (Brandie) Lillie, Lollah (Carrie) Ethan and Ali (Chris); sisters, Beverly (Bev), Judy and their families; countless friends and his fur companions, Holly and Kiss.

We are comforted in the thought that Ray has been reunited with his parents, Roy and Marjorie Cumbers and with his best friend and brother, Robert Cumbers.

Born in Calgary Alberta, Ray moved around in childhood with his dad’s employer Shell Oil and settled back in Calgary to start a family. During the 80’s, Ray was transferred to Vernon, BC with his long-time employer Safeway where he stayed until retirement brought him back to Alberta to be closer to his family. Merle and Ray settled in Airdrie in 2006 where they enjoyed snow birding to Arizonia, camping with friends and family, and travelling to Mexico.

As an avid sport fan, you could always count on a Calgary Stampeders football game, Calgary Flames hockey or a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game on the TV. Ray also loved live music and was always prepared for a good time with his smile that lit up any room.

The family would like to thank the Airdrie first responder teams for their professionalism, compassion and support.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be sent to the Alberta Cancer foundation; www.cancer.ca.

“And, just at the moment when someone says,” There, she (he) is gone,” there are other eyes watching her (him) coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout. “Here she (he) comes!” -Excerpt from the poem by Henry Van Dyke


Share a message or memory
Jeff Younger
2 months ago
My deepest condolences to Merle and family as I learned of Ray's passing. I met Ray while working at Adesa (otherwise know as Adult Daycare), we bonded quickly and shared a lot of point of views. Ray was always a pleasure to be with and share a laugh or a beer. He will be missed by many.
Don and Linda Jones
2 months ago
We are very sad to hear of Rays passing. It was such a treat to have worked several years with him at Safeway in Vernon. . I remember traveling once to Calgary to see a Flames Kings game, and a chance to see Gretzky in action….thanks to Fletchers Meats for the great tickets. I met his parents and wonderful daughters, and enjoyed staying at their place. We remember Ray as upbeat, positive, conscientious and polite. Our deepest condolences to Merle and the entire family.
douglas mcnee
2 months ago
My sincere condolences to Merle and family. Ray was truly a standup guy respected by all of his peers and management team at Safeway. I always enjoyed shooting the breeze with him on his store visits and meetings. Thanks for the memories Ray
Rob Zacharias
2 months ago
Met Ray in Puerto Vallarta where he ended up getting his lawnmower tattoo. Such good times. Our condolences to the whole family.
Erin Smith
2 months ago
We are missing our "Ray of Sunshine" at ADESA already and so sorry to hear of this huge loss. Ray was fun and positive and great to work with, everyone here loved chatting and laughing with him and he really brightened the day of all his coworkers. Will miss running into him at Balzac Brewing and seeing him at the auction very much. Sending lots of love to all of his family at this time. <3
Al & Pat Chickoski
2 months ago
Merle and family
Another taken away too soon but Ray always made an everlasting impression on whom ever he met. Pat and I have so many fond memories of the impromptu after work happy hours at W.V. with you and Ray. He worked hard and always could come up with some comical comment to make the day better. We are so sorry for your loss Merle
Ashley Luker
2 months ago
Ray always had smiles to share and laughter that echoed in the hallways at work. He will be missed.
Brian & Cathie Weber
2 months ago
Our relationship was too short (6 yrs) but the great memories will last a life time. Ray was always ready to help people with anything he could - friends first, Ray second! Thank you Ray for the great times we had. Mexico, ADESA ,and all the offices we worked out of.
One thing Ray. Merle will be well looked after by the myriad of family and friends you both made over the years!
We'll miss you but never forget you.❤
Dave Kirby
2 months ago
Elsie and I were so very sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. I worked alongside Ray for a few years and it didn’t take much time to start a friendship with him and I was so honoured to know Ray and Merle. We had some great visits. Ray will be missed and we treasure our memories of him. We are thinking of Merle and the families during this time and we share in your loss of a wonderful man ! RIP dear Ray …..
Scott cameron
2 months ago
Dear Merle,
God bless you and family in this time of your loss. I'm here to support any way possible going forward. I mourn for and miss my friend!
Bryan & Brenda Dalrymple
2 months ago
Dear Merle and Cumbers' Family;
We would like to send our deepest sympathies to all. We had many a good times with Ray and family. Always a good time. Ray will be missed.
Sincerely Bryan & Brenda Dartmouth , N.S.