July 7, 1930 - February 1, 2021
1930 - 2021
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, Nonno and uncle, Raymond Armando LeRose.
Ray was born in Trail on July 7, 1930, to Bruno and Adelina LeRose, a little brother for Ernest and Geno. He grew up on Nelson Ave and worked in the Trail Meat Market. He attended Oregon State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. Upon returning to Trail, Ray met the love of his life, Carol, at the Christina Lake Dance Hall. They were married in 1959. During their 62 years of marriage, Ray and Carol had 3 children: Nancy (Mike), Jill (Bill), and Gerry, along with 5 beautiful grandchildren: Brad (Stef), Robyn (Dave), Melanie, Christopher (Kathryn), and Brooklyn. He cherished all his family, including numerous nieces and nephews and their children.
Above all, his family was most important to him. He loved spending time with them at Christina Lake, backyard swim parties with all the cousins and the annual Christmas afternoon family gathering, which always included his famous shrimp dip. He showed us what family is all about while making us laugh each step of the way. He had a way of storytelling and could bring a room to laughter and tears. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel welcome and made friends in every place he went.
Professionally, Ray partnered with dear friend Doug Milne forming Trail Drug Company which was later renamed as Western Drug Mart and included Paul Beattie as third partner. In 1979, Ray became owner/associate of Trail's Shopper's Drug Mart where he was well-loved by his staff, retiring in 1995. He found great joy and pride in serving the Trail community and within his profession, which included President of the Jaycees, Kinsmen executive, Community Chest President, Trail Hospital Board, Trail Regional Hospital Foundation Chairman, Past President Kootenay Industrial Development Association. Pharmacy services included BC Pharmacist Licensing Board, BC Pharmacist Member Association and Southwestern Drug Warehouse Board Member. Ray was a member of the Colombo Lodge, Trail Curling Club and the Birchbank Golf Course.
Ray was truly a kind, generous and loving gentleman. Anyone who had the good fortune to know him, loved him.
A very special thank you to First Responders and the loving support of neighbours, family and friends.
Due to Covid restrictions, a funeral will not be held. However, anyone wishing to pay their respects is welcome to "drive by" the family home at 3581 Aster Drive on Saturday, February 13 between 1 - 3 pm. Bill Clark of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
In honour of Ray, donations may be made to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital Health Foundation at 1200 Hospital Bench Road, Trail, BC V1R 4M1 or online at www.kbrhhealthfoundation.ca
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family's online register at www.myalternatives.ca
"The man is a success...who follows his dreams and pursues excellence in each task, and who brings out the best in others, and gives only the best of himself"
By Robert Louis Stevenson