Raymond Lloyd North

Raymond North passed away suddenly on August 29, 2015, at the age of 65. Raymond was born December 2, 1949. He grew up on an orchard in Medford, Oregon, riding horses and living the farm life. He attended Reed College in Portland, Oregon, and the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon. Raymond gave his seemingly limitless energy and enthusiasm for several years to working in social services including migrant education and mental health. The longer he lived in the Puget Sound area the more he was drawn to the water. He completed the Marine Technology Program at Seattle Central Community College, ultimately achieving his Merchant Marine Mate’s license. He joined the Washington State Ferry System in 1982, and worked up and down the Sound until his retirement in 2010. Raymond thrived on the challenges of seamanship and the diverse ferry system family.

We remember a loving soul who left a trail of beautiful memories. His quirky charm, his generosity, his colorful personality and unique sense of humor. Who can forget his wriggling of his double-jointed fingers to the horrified delight of onlookers. His raspy laugh? His love for his wife Caroline? Or his unending affection for his dogs who in turn adored him and followed him on foot or with love in their eyes wherever he went?

We remember Raymond at Goat Island, resplendent in his “Handoflage,” the boat covered with hand prints painted in camouflage paint. Overloaded with other people’s belongings, it was an unforgettable sight. Upon landing, first the dog, then the passengers, the baggage, tents, and food next, and then Skipper Raymond waded ashore.

He was the “Pigmeister” at Maltby, organizing the digging of the pit and burial of the pig for the annual Pig Roast. He was the creative artist behind the Spirit Totem, and each year made hangings and decorations for this most delightful of parties.

Raymond brought flowers from his bountiful garden to every hostess of every event. In the days of his “girls,” he would bring eggs with big orange yolks and great bags of vegetables, including green beans which his dog Eena liked to eat fresh off the vine. We see Raymond, a Universal Life Minister, officiating at weddings…even in Mexico. Taking this role to heart he blended seriousness with warmth and lightheartedness on these ceremonial occasions.

A gleaner of crabs and shellfish. An avid fisherman. A devoted hunter who joined friends in stalking deer and ducks. A smoker of cigars who liked to wear a cowboy hat. A surprising gourmet who made a mean chili and loved chocolate truffles. A giver of gifts both in person and anonymously. Someone who dealt with many challenges to his health, but who didn’t always take it seriously. A good friend.

Uncompromising, generous, compassionate. He is gone now, but in the trail of memories he leaves behind, we will forever find him in our smiles and hearts.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents Hattie Pauline and Merle North. He is survived by his wife Caroline, sister Marjory, and his devoted canine companion of the last 3 years Lucy. Raymond is also survived by his nephews Mathew, Joe, Stuart and Skyler, a niece Rachel, and his godson Jeff. Enriching his life even further were his neighborhood young friends Patrick and Nigel. All gave him great joy. Raymond will also be missed by his dear friends who were close in spirit and enjoyed multiple adventures and traditions.

A gathering in his memory will be held October 17, 2015, from 1-4 pm at his home 21931 Locust Place; Lynnwood, WA 98036.

In lieu of flowers please give a gift to your favorite charity.