Ray Edwin Pickles, 86

Jan 6, 2020

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ray Edwin Pickles, 86, of Marion. Ray passed away on Dec. 20 at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Providence, Rhode Island December 18, 1933, son of the late Frank Pickles and Mildred Ray.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Diane Bondi-Pickles, loving children Christopher (Margaret) Pickles; Justine (Nick Vardaro) Pickles; Leah Pickles, and granddaughter, Danika Vardaro. As well as his sister Lucille of St. Johnsbury, VT and late son Charles Arnold Ray Pickles.

During the Korean War Ray served in the US Army. He then graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston with a degree in Civil Engineering. Ray went on to have a long career in public service, including 28 years as the Town Administrator for the Town of Marion.

Ray had a passion for life and he embraced it fully. He was an avid skier, enjoyed the thrill and speed of car racing, and loved open water diving. Ray enjoyed many years of competitive sailboat racing, including five Marion to Bermuda races. He also loved ocean cruising with his family along the Atlantic Coast. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father and friend.

Family and friends are invited to attend Ray’s memorial service at St. Gabriel’s Church on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 11 a.m.