He was born August 5, 1962, in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served a mission in Dallas, Texas. He lived in Farmington, Utah, attended the University of Utah, and received an Associate Degree in nursing. He met his wife, Kathleen DuPlessis, in Rochester, New York. They married on October 25, 1986, and he was extremely supportive of her career, taking the primary role in raising their three children.
In his later years, Ray was a Production Specialist and co-owner of Office eXperts, Inc. He loved every one of his customers like they were his best friend. Ray was a neat freak, a true “Mr. Clean” known for cleaning just about anything with Windex. He enjoyed playing golf, fishing and bowling. He had a big, commanding voice, was the life of any party, and was full of fun and laughter. Ray loved being with his family, and adored his grandchildren and grand-dog, Matrix. Taking vacations with them, especially to the beach, were always special events.
Ray was a gemologist with a specialty in diamontology. His knowledge of jewelry was extensive and he was a skilled salesman. He had a large collection of jewelry of his own. In addition to jewelry, Ray collected seashells, Matchbox Mopar cars, and Rat Fink memorabilia. He was the proud owner of a 2021 Dodge Challenger.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 38 years, Kathleen “Kathy” Salimbene; three children, Brandon (Brenda) Salimbene, Brett (Carly Sue Stevens) Salimbene and Brittany (Lance Heinberger) Salimbene; father, John (Sherry) Salimbene Sr.; four grandchildren, Vincenza, Floretzia, Giuliara and Christopher; seven siblings, John (Carrie Lynn) Salimbene Jr., Elizabeth “Beth” (Mike) Medsker, Julee (Kirby) Beck, Sandie (Dale) Graham, Josie (Dave) Alexander, Michael (Jen) Salimbene and Kathie (Lance) Ellsworth; in-laws, Danny (Roxanne) Rolla and Stephen DuPlessis; stepfather, Richard DeRoller; and best friends, Garner Wood, Mike Flores, Ben Jones, Sam Campbell, Phil Lau, Tony Collie, Todd Kendrick, Mike Taylor, Joe Lee, and Jeff Haring. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra Whiting Salimbene.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1951 Middle-Bellville Road, Mansfield, Ohio. A memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. with Bishop Matthew Parr officiating. Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
