Posted: Thursday, April 2, 2009 12:00 am
Nov. 20, 1955 - March 24, 2009
Raymond Wayne Raappana, 53, died Tuesday, March 24, at home in Sahuarita, Ariz. after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Randall Raappana. Ray was born Nov. 20, 1955, in Longview, Wash., to Norman and LaVerne Raappana. His hometown was Clatskanie, where he grew up on a ranch.
He joined the Army in 1973 and was stationed in Germany. After returning to the U.S. he moved to Walla Walla, Wash., and lived there for 14 years, working as an auto detailer and printing press operator. Ray moved to Corvallis, where he met his wife, Renee, and they married in 1992. He worked for the local Toyota dealership. In 1999, Ray and Renee moved to Sahuarita, Ariz. Ray worked as a coach operator for Sun Tran in Tucson. He always said he enjoyed his job because he liked driving and he liked people.
Ray is survived by his wife, Renee; brother, David Raappana of Touchet, Wash.; as well as aunts, uncles and cousins with whom he had close relationships. He leaves behind the many friends he made and kept throughout his life. Ray was known for his love of life, family, and friends. He will be missed greatly. A memorial service is planned for a later date. Memorial donations can be made to charity of choice.
Green Valley Mortuary and Cemetery of Green Valley, Ariz., 520-625-7400, is in charge of arrangements.