Raymond “Ray” Dale Stapleton “Mr. Ray”

Raymond “Ray” Dale Stapleton, “Mr. Ray,” passed away peacefully on April 24, 2014, with his family by his side.

Ray was born in Selma, Calif., on July 17, 1949 to John and Phyllis Stapleton. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ray met his devoted and loving wife, Janet, while living in Bakersfield, Calif., where they later married in February 2005. Shortly after that they moved to Oak Harbor, where he worked for Shell Petro and then retired.

Ray is survived by his wife, Janet; two daughters, Tammy (Scott) Wise and Kristie Alarcon, and; two stepsons, Dustin Hilliard and Kenny (Misty) Bradshaw.

Also surviving are four grandchildren, Jordan, Chelsey, Casey and Cody; sisters, Billie (Ed) Reynolds and Shirley Zeak; many nieces and nephews he adored, and; many friends and neighbors whom he considered family.

The family would like to add a sincere thank you to Dr. Andrew Coletti and his wonderful team of LVAD nurses. Thank you’s are also extended to St. Joseph Hospital fourth floor cardiovascular nursing team for all their care, compassion and kindness of and to Ray.

A special thank you also to our extended medical family in Spokane, Wash., at the LVAD Surgical Group, Sacred Heart.

A Memorial Service is 2 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 2014 at the Bridge Fellowship, 444 Ducken Road, Pastor Les Dams officiating. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at

www.whidbeymemorial.com