Obituary of Ray N. Scratch

SCRATCH, Ray N. - Of St. Thomas, passed away at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) on Saturday, May 11, 2019, in his 95^th year.  Beloved husband for over 73 years to Ruby (née Nead) Scratch.  Dearly loved father of Barbara Harvey (Murray), Donna Lewis, and Janis Proud (Ted Lyons), all of St. Thomas.  Cherished grandfather of Darren Harvey (Helen), Chad Harvey (Heather), Mike Lewis, Mark Lewis, Sarah Robles (Nino), and April Proud (Ian Clark).  Dear brother of Geraldine McAuslan (Kenneth) of Windsor.  Also survived by 7 great grandchildren; Macey and Allie Harvey, Mara and Phoebe Harvey, Zackary Lewis, Ruby and Pearl Clark and baby boy Robles due August 2019, as well as many nieces, nephews and their families.  Ray was predeceased by an infant son, David, and by a brother, Hugh.  Born in Gosfield South Township, Essex County, ON, June 21, 1924, he was the son of the late Gerald and Minnie (née Breen) Scratch.  During the Second World War, Ray served in Canada with the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps.  He came to St. Thomas from Leamington, ON in 1959.  Ray was a retired sales representative with The Co-Operators Insurance.  He was a member of Central United Church, a life member of the Golden K Kiwanis Club, St. Thomas, and a life member of the Scottish Rite, being a 32^nd degree mason.  Ray was a former member of Talbot Lodge #546, A.F. & A.M., St. Thomas, Hi-Ro Shrine Club of Elgin, Hillbilly Clan 59, and Mocha Temple Shrine, London.  In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.  A service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at Central United Church, 135 Wellington Street, St. Thomas on Thursday, May 16^th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception.  Relatives and friends will be received by the family on Wednesday evening, May 15^th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the SIFTON FUNERAL HOME, 118 Wellington St., St. Thomas (519-631-1160) and one hour prior to the service at the church.  Memorial donations to the STEGH Foundation or Central United Church will be gratefully acknowledged.  The family wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff of Metcalfe Gardens and the STEGH Palliative team for all their care and comfort.