Obituary: Ray Keating Jr. (updated)
Ray Dale “Papa” Keating Jr., 85, born June 3, 1926, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Ray and Christina Keating, died suddenly Wednesday, Jan. 25, at Kingman Regional Medical Center in Kingman.
Ray, adored husband and father, joined the U.S. Navy in 1944 and served in World War II as a Specialist 3rd Class. He lived in Southern California until 1992, where he was a carpenter who owned a construction company. Following his time in California, he moved to Kingman.
Ray was a member of the American Legion Post 817 in Panorama City, Calif., serving the post with great pride and becoming Commander in 1980-81.
As a member of the VFW Post 10386 in Kingman, he served as commander four times, showing his great dedication to the veterans in the community and throughout Mohave County. He will be remembered for his many contributions to the VFW. His annual corned beef and cabbage dinners will be missed.
Ray, known affectionately as “Uncle Sonny” to his many nieces and nephews, enjoyed living in Arizona, spending time working in his shop and yard. When time permitted, he packed the trailer and he and his wife, Dottie, would spend time camping and fishing in Williams or at Willow Beach.
Ray was honored as the grand marshal in the Kingman Veterans Day Parade in November 2011. He enjoyed a full and happy life and was kind to all those he met. He provided his family with love and support, and will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.
Ray is survived by his wife of 33 years, Dorothy; five daughters, Debbie, Mary, Donna, Brenda and Judith Anne; and two sons, Bobbie and Mac. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; and his three sisters, Eleanor, Betty and Joyce.
Awaiting Ray in his new Heavenly home are his parents, brother, other family members and many wonderful friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, at the VFW Post 10386 located at 3036 John L Ave., Kingman.
Source: http://www.kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=167&SubSectionID=468&ArticleID=48964, Viewed: 7 February 2012.