Raymond Clare Edwards

It is with deep sadness that we share with you the passing of Ray on Monday, February 6, 2017. He left us while still holding the hand he has held for the past 75 plus years, his beloved wife, Rita. He also leaves behind his children, Donna Astoorian, Shirley Ellement, Ray (Shirley) Edwards and Wayne (Corinne) Edwards, along with 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents Ray and Carrie Edwards, his brother Mervyn Edwards, his sister Joyce Lowe, his daughter Karen Benevides, and sons-in-law Dave Astoorian, Joe Benevides and Derek Ellement. Ray lived a long, full, and productive life - a dutiful son, an adoring husband, a loving father, a doting grandfather, and a successful businessman. A man of faith, he was a founding member of Bethel Gospel Tabernacle, and a behind-the-scenes supporter of Crossroads Television/100 Huntley Street. He served is country as a R.C.A.F. Flying Officer during WWII, his profession as a past president of the Hamilton Real Estate Board, his city Alderman, and his province as a member of the legislature. Family will receive friends at CRESMOUNT FUNERAL HOME, 322 Fennell Ave. E., on Thursday, February 9th from 6-9 p.m. and will continue at Bethel Gospel Tabernacle, 1355 Upper Wellington St., on Friday, February 10th from 10 a.m. until time of the service at 11 a.m. Interment in Woodland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.

You may have thought we didn't see or that we hadn't heard life lessons that you taught us, but we got every word. Perhaps you thought we missed it all, and that we'd grow apart, but Dad, we picked up everything, it's written on our hearts. Without you, Dad, we wouldn't be the people we are today; you built a strong foundation no one can take away. We've grown up with your values, and we're very glad we did; so here's to you, dear father, from your forever grateful kids.