Raymond Ronald (Ray) Brooks passed peacefully from this life in Vancouver on July 30, 2024, at the age of 73. He was born in Vancouver to Edward and Rose Brooks. After that marriage ended, his father married Sophie Hubsky when Ray was 7 years old, and together they raised him with much love and affection.
Ray graduated in the class of 1969 from Ridgefield High School. He proudly served his country as a chef in the Navy from 1971-74. Ray was very patriotic and loved to decorate with colors of red, white and blue on Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veterans Day. He was proud to be an American. After serving in the Navy, Ray used what he had learned as a chef to cook in restaurants. The last place he worked as a cook was the Yankee pot roast. He loved cooking and never considered it a job, but something fun to do. I do not think he ever used a recipe; he just knew how to cook and what spices and ingredients would make it taste good.
Ray is known for his infectious and fun-loving personality. He had a way of making people laugh and feel good. He was always entertaining. Ray was creative, whether it was arranging flowers, making something out of a piece of junk, painting rocks or decorating a room. He also had a green thumb. He could grow anything.
Ray is survived by three brothers, Darrel of Vancouver; Chuck of Roanoke, Virginia; Gary (Linda) of Long Beach, Washington; a sister, Debbie of Woodland, Washington; nephews and great-nieces. An older brother Jim passed away in 2002.
The family is grateful for the loving care Ray received from Pleasant Family Adult Care. We are especially grateful for the excellent care and benefits received from the Veterans Administration.
A service will be held at St. Mary of Guadalupe Church, 1520 N. 65th Ave, Ridgefield, Washington, at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024. A reception will follow in the church hall.
