Raymond Joseph "Ray" Cahill

Jane,Debbie and Colleen: We were saddened to learn of your Dad’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you say goodbye to Ray . May he now Rest In Peace. Arthur and Carolyn Johnston

Farewell, dear Uncle Ray, my favourite uncle. Gentle and kind, there was nothing he couldn’t fix. Uncle Ray was compassionate to a fault where even awaiting heart surgery at the Ottawa Hospital Heart Institute, my uncle took his surgeon aside and told the doctor that if he had another patient with a more urgent case, to take them ahead of him. I hope that they are feeding you well in heaven, Uncle Ray and that you get extra portions and dessert. xo

Raymond J. Cahill
Memories from Debbie Cahill Trafford (aka Cat)
My earliest memories are of our trips to the island and the big family gatherings. We always said our prayers for a safe journey along the way. There was always room at the tables for one more. Then after dinner was cleared away the card game started usually Euchre (uker). Dad always loved to play cards.
Ray spent over 30 years working at AECL and he used to ride the bus from Pembroke. As a young girl I timed my evening walk of the dog with the arrival of the bus bringing Dad home from work. We used to walk home together and talk about our days.
It was Dad who taught me how to BBQ. His best advice was when barbequing always focus only on that, otherwise you would burn dinner. I’m pretty sure that came from personal experience.
Everyone knows Ray was a mechanical genius. He loved to tinker, work on his lathe and build things. I used to want to help out when Dad was doing things around the house. One time, which I recently reminded him of, he was painting the floor in the basement. He reluctantly agreed to allowing me to help him, however he probably shouldn’t have. At some time during my efforts to “help” I slipped on the wet paint and went for a slide. With me covered in sticky wet paint all he could do was shake his head.
Dad always wanted to be on time for everything, Mom not so much. One time when we were heading to church Mom and Aunt Isobel took a little bit too long getting ready. When they came out of the house Dad had left them behind.
There were times at church that Ray would look down the pew at Mom and I as we giggled about something or other. Being the ever-clever man, he would usually position himself between the two of us after we returned from communion.
The term “Racing Ray” was bestowed upon Dad at one time. There must be some truth to that nickname. I remember a time with the two of us in the car returning to Pembroke he was pulled over by the OPP for going a bit too fast. He looked at the officer with a straight face and said “I’m very sorry officer, but my daughter has to go to the bathroom”. He got off.
Raising three daughters Dad learned all of our tricks. As a teenager my bedroom on Patricia street was in the basement. Well once in a while I thought it was appropriate for me to go out on some late-night escapades with my friends. This required me to climb up to the window push out the screen and then slide out the window. I thought I was brilliant until one night I went to complete my escape and the screen wouldn’t budge. The next day I went to look and there were multiple screws holding it in place. Thanks Dad.
When we were young Dad used to always say good night to us and give us a kiss on the forehead. Now it is time for us to say good night to you Dad.
You were our guiding light, our strength, and our mentor. You taught us how to change our own tires, how to check the engine oil, and how to be, by your example kind and gentle.
You are joining so many that have gone before and their arms are open in a big welcome. We will miss your smile, your laugh and your caring nature. You left your mark on everyone that you met.
Now we pray for your safe journey to heaven.
All my love,
Debbie

Deb, Colleen and your families....I would like to express my condolences. May the wonderful memories you created with your dad help you through this difficult time.

Our heartfelt condolences to Colleen,Debbie,Jane and families. He was such a kind, gentle and friendly gentleman. I know he will be missed by many. xo
Cheryle & Gary McRae