Obituary of Raymond Read Canon

RAYMOND READ CANON

Peacefully passed away on June 4th, 2021, in his 94th year. Loving husband of Sue Canon, his wife of 62 years. Father of Robert and stepfather of Philip (Colleen). “Papa Ray” to Mallory (Jon) and Leila (Andrew), and their children Alice and Angus. Ray is survived by his sister, Margaret Lothian (Port Hope), his sister-in-law, Judy MacKay (Halifax) and niece Carri MacKay (Garrett). As a young man, Ray studied in Switzerland, where he played hockey for the Swiss Hockey League and acquired his love of languages. He served in the RCAF reserves, earning his pilot’s license and later serving as a NATO instructor. In the 1950’s he worked for the Dept. Of External Affairs, stationed in Europe processing Hungarian refugees bound for Canada. Ray taught Languages at Oakridge S.S. in the 1960’s and went on to teach Economics at Western and Fanshawe. In retirement, Ray taught in the Czech Republic and wrote columns on aviation and economics for newspapers in southwestern Ontario. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Meadow Park Long Term Care Home for their kindness and compassion during Ray’s final years. Ray considered Meadow Park his home and he would want his caregivers to know just how much they meant to him. A memorial service will be held at Byron United Church at a later date. Donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the Memorial and Honour Fund of Byron United Church.