Veteran, Pilot, Rotarian
Gary Glenn Ray of Castle Pines Village died peacefully on Thursday, June 16, 2022. Gary was born on February 8, 1936, in Amarillo, Texas to Bernice and Glenn Ray.
He attended the University of Oklahoma and was a lifelong Sooners fan. While in college, Gary was an active member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and involved in the ROTC. Following graduation with a B.S. degree in Geology, Gary became a fighter pilot for the United States Air Force and later a 747 Captain for United Airlines and flight training instructor. After his retirement in 1996, Gary valued being at the airport so much that he became one of the volunteer Ambassadors for many years.
Gary’s love of his career was surpassed only by the love of his family and friends. He was the beloved husband of Gayle Branigan Ray, a loving father to his three daughters Courtney Ray, Tiffany Ray Carlson (Tim) and Shannon Ray, all of California; and stepchildren John Kenny (Castle Rock) and Kristin Kenny (Aspen). He also leaves his sisters Lynda Ray Nunez (Ignacio) and Gigi Ray and partner, Beth McHenry (Texas) and five grandchildren, four great grandchildren, numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews and close friends around the world.
Gary and Gayle loved to travel the globe and had friends on almost every continent except Antarctica.
Gary moved to Denver in 1983 and considered Colorado home. He is a past president of Littleton Rotary and was named a Paul Harris Fellow and a lifelong honorary member of Rotary International. He was also an avid supporter of Opera Colorado, APAC (Asian Performing Arts of Colorado), Families First, Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the Nathan Yip Foundation.
Gary enjoyed all sporting events, a good book, and a great party. He enjoyed golfing and loved to ski – having a home in Vail for many years. Gary was an enthusiastic friend to everyone. He enjoyed meeting new people and learning about their lives. He lived life to the fullest and will be missed.
Internment will be July 22, 2022 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Gary be made to the charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held Friday, July 22, 2022 at Pinehurst Country Club. For details: gayleoray@gmail.com.