Raymond Harry Archie HUGHES

Ray was born to proud parents Angelina (nee. Di Bernardo) Hughes and Sidney Scott Hughes on February 17, 1937 in Natal, BC. As a boy, Ray’s fondest memories were of horse drawn sleigh rides with his Grandpa and the adventures he had with his cousin Henry Kozler. Ray graduated Grade 12 from the Michel-Natal Central School and Grade 13 from Fernie High School. He went on to obtain his teaching certificate from Victoria College and his Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia.

Ray had a passion for Teaching and Education. He began his career leading coal exploration teams for Kaiser Resources Ltd. in the summer months and teaching at the Grasmere School House. He went on to teach at Fernie Secondary School for many years before becoming the school’s Vice Principle. In 1973, Ray was appointed to McTaggart-Cowan Commission, a government body formed to study the need for post-secondary education in various areas of BC where he played a pivotal role in the formation of the East Kootenay Community College (now College of the Rockies). Ray also helped to organize the 1978 BC Winter Games in Fernie. In the latter half of his career, Ray served as Director of Education for School District No. 1 and later School District No. 5.

Outside work, Ray enjoyed being outdoors, puttering and working around his property in Fernie, and spending time with family.

Ray is survived by his wife Eileen (nee. Hardinge) Hughes, son and daughter-in-law Bryce and Betty Hughes, daughter Kerri Romanetz, grandchildren Addin Romanetz, Koen Romanetz and Kana Hughes, and son‑in‑law Greg Romanetz.

www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com