We Remember

WALSH, Raymond Russell
September 3, 1946 — May 13, 2025
It is with great love and sadness that we announce the loss of Raymond Russell Walsh, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his wife and family, at Kelowna General Hospital on May 13, 2025, at the age of 78.
Left to hold him dear to their hearts are his wife, Marlene Walsh; step-daughter Cindy (Jason); grandchildren Cassandra (Steven), Curtis, and Colby; great-grandson Edward, mother Christina; and siblings Vivian, Keith (Lois), Louise, and Elaine (Bob); and many nieces and nephews. He now goes to join his father, William, who passed before him.
Born on September 3, 1946, in Vancouver, BC, Raymond was one of five siblings in a close-knit family. He was the kind of person everyone felt lucky to know — generous, caring, and kind-hearted. There truly wasn’t a bad bone in his body. For 25 years, he worked as a school bus driver, a job he took pride in. He genuinely cared for the kids he drove every day, always making time for a smile or a kind word. His calm and patient nature made him a steady presence in many young lives.
Raymond met his wife, Marlene, on the dance floor at the Elk’s Hall, and dancing remained a big part of their lives. They spent winters in Yuma, Arizona — first in a motorhome, later in a mobile home — where they danced every Friday night and made lifelong friendships. Over time, their daughter Cindy’s in-laws joined them for those winters, adding another layer of warmth to those memories. Raymond also loved the outdoors — fishing, hunting, golfing, and especially hiking. He was happiest out on a trail with school kids or standing at the top of a mountain, quietly taking in the view.
Raymond will be deeply missed. He didn’t need to say much to leave a lasting impression — his actions, his consistency, and the way he treated people spoke volumes. Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, his love for simple pleasures, and the way he showed up for the people he cared about.
A Celebration of Life will be held in honour of Raymond on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:00 am, located at Springfield Funeral Home Family Centre, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BC Cancer.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:00 am
Location
Springfield Funeral Home Family Centre, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC
Share with Others:
Service Information
Service Details
The service for WALSH, Raymond Russell is scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:00 am. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Marlene I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that my heart aches for you. Sending love and strength ❣️
Marlene,
We are thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. Ray’s life meant so much to so many people. He had an infectious smile, he never knew a stranger and was so welcoming to everyone he met.
We cherish our memories of ATV rides in the AZ desert, Saturday night dances and happy hours!
We hope good memories help take you through the hard times. Wishing you peace in this time of grieving. Sending hugs and loves,
Donna and Larry Conner
We are so sorry for all the Walsh families Loss of Ray. I grew up with Ray in Dawson Creek and we have been friends every since. We enjoyed Marlene and Rays visits and special family reunions over the years, He will be missed by us all. Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to Marlene and families . RIP my friend. Mickey and Joyce Stubley
i’m sorry for your loss marlene and his family i wont forget his smile and genorosity made me feel wanted 💙💐
Marlene, so very sorry for your loss. May the memories you hold dear to your heart help you through this sad time.
Lorenda and Jeff Thompson
Chris, Marlene and all of Ray’s family – so sorry to hear of Ray’s passing! He was a great man who loved to help others in any way he could, and he helped me with my move to B.C. more than I will probably ever fully realize.
Marlene, I am so sorry for your loss. Ray was a very giving and caring man. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. You are in my thoughts.