| Graduation Year | Class of 1966 |
| Date of Passing | Mar 23, 2015 |
| About | Raymond Cornelius Dekker [67], passed away on March 23, 2015 in Yakima, WA. He was born on October 23, 1947 in Yakima to Bert and Wanda Dekker. As a young boy, Ray lived in the lower valley and moved to Yakima at age 8. Ray graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1966. After high school he worked on his family farm, Dekker & Sons in White Swan, which was always near and dear to his heart. Following his time on the ranch, he had various occupations including crabbing in Alaska and construction. Ray was always willing to try new adventures. One of our most memorable was owning and operating the Westside Mini Mart. In 1981 he obtained his real estate license and became broker and owner to two real estate companies, Valley Real Estate and Relco Realty. Ray married Cathy in 1979. He became not only a husband, but an exceptional step-father to Stephanie and Kristi. Cathy and Ray showed us all what true love is and were married for 36 years. In 1981, Erin Rae was born and became Ray’s “Er-bug” and pride and joy. In early 1999, Ray suffered a massive stroke. We were fortunate to have 16 more years which is a testament to his love of life, family and will to live until the absolute end. Cathy provided loving care that never wavered, she loved him dearly and they were best friends. Their commitment to each other and sense of humor left all that met them in awe. Those 16 years allowed Ray to see Erin graduate high school and college, as well as, watch his grandkids grow. Ray was preceded in death by his father Bert, mother Wanda and sister-in-law Karolyn Dekker. Ray is survived by his wife Cathy; his daughters, Stephanie Conrad (Rob) and Kristi Newman all of Yakima and Erin Dekker of Mammoth Lakes, CA; his brothers L Bert (Sonny) Dekker, Bruce Dekker (Judy), John Dekker; sisters Eileen Nehl (Bob) and Marie Dekker, all of Yakima; his beloved grandchildren Kyle Conrad, Allyson Conrad, Olivia Newman, Lauren Newman, and Natalie Newman. He was “Uncle Ripper” to many special nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 11 am, Friday, March 27, 2015 at Shaw and Sons Funeral Directors. Viewing is available prior to the service from 9-11 am. Burial will follow at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. |
