Obituary of William Raymond Wakem

Wakem, William “Raymond” – A resident of Middlesex County, Ray Wakem peacefully passed away on December 26, 2017 at the St. Marys Memorial Hospital in his 90th year. Farmer forever, family man first and avid traveller. Ray loved spending time at his home in Florida, trailer in Strathroy and farm on Cobble Hills Road. A loyal friend and man of his word. He found strength in freedom and taught us all to truly enjoy life. Loving husband and soulmate of 68 years to Donna Wakem (Fewster). They were married in 1949 and together raised their family in Zorra and Middlesex Counties. Proud and treasured father of Allen Wakem (Gloria), Ron Wakem (Karen), Tom Wakem (Elly), Delores Wilding (John), Rick Wakem (Cathy), and Christine Harris (Rob). Cherished grandfather of 18 grandchildren; Connie, Marty, Rob, Lynne, Jo-Anne, Denise, Cheryl, Darren, Ashley, Carrie, Norm, Bobbie-Jo, Kelly, Sam, Crystal, Whitney, and Kyle. Predeceased by one grandson, Michael in 2002. Great grandfather of 34 great-grand children with another to arrive in February 2018. Raymond was born July 5, 1928 to the late William John and Ruth Isabelle Wakem (Hall). Dear brother of Betty Harburn (Jack), Jean Harris, Jack Wakem (Joyce) and brother-in-law of Audrey Beadle. Predeceased by brothers Leonard and Tom Wakem (Ruth), sisters Helene Haas (Lloyd) and Wilma Clark (Glen) and brothers-in-law Alonzo Harburn, Garnet Harris and Bob Fewster. He will be sadly missed by brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews, friends and family. We will take comfort in your love and tremendous impact on our lives. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the St. Marys Memorial Hospital.Visitation at the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S., St. Marys, on Friday, Dec. 29, from 6 – 9 p.m. A Private Family Service will take place later. Interment in St. Marys Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Marys Memorial Hospital Foundation.