WHITAKER, Raymond John (Ray) (Poppa)

After a courageous battle, Ray passed away peacefully at Hospice Southland on Monday, January 23, 2023. Much loved husband and best friend of Carolyn. Devoted and loving father and father-in-law of Marcus, Scott and Amanda, and Louise. A very proud Poppa of Claudia, the late Emma-Rose, Isobel, Charlie, Hollie and Leilah. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Colin and Christine, Glenda and Brian Brown (Alexandra), and Judy and Bill Beaumont (Nelson). Dearly loved son and son-in-law of the late Ev and Ivan Whitaker, and the late Norma and Perc Edney. Much loved uncle of all his nieces and nephews. The Whitaker family wishes to thank Dr Neil Cremasco and staff at Hospice Southland for taking exceptional care of our hero. A service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at J Fraser and Sons, Corner Esk and Doon Streets, Invercargill, on Friday, January 27 at 2.00pm, followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Hospice Southland. Messages to 47 Anglesey St, Invercargill or on Ray’s tribute page at frasersfunerals.co.nz where a livestream link can be found.