Obituary of Raymond Eugene Girard
Raymond Eugene Girard
December 4, 1939 – January 9, 2024
It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of Raymond Girard AKA Santa on January 9, 2024 at the age of 84 years. Loving husband to Patricia (nee Powers) for 63 years. Father to Mike, Michele (Jeff), and Ken. Loving Grandpa to Tawnya (Pedro), Lauren (AJ), Brooke (Randy), and Steve. Proud Papa to Adelynn, Aiden, Rayna, Maple, Ariella, Lennon, and Noble. Ray was loved by many, not just family. Over the years, Raymond was a huge part of the Windsor-Essex community. Ray started his career as a Wood Patternmaker in which he worked for 21 years. He left Patternmaking for employment with Ford Motor Company and retired as a skilled trade Millwright in 2004. Over the years he involved himself in many hobbies and interests. He was a long-time member of Scouts Canada. He had a love for bowling, shooting pool, and was an outstanding euchre player. He created many friendships at the Life After 50 Centre and was a popular regular there for almost 20 years. But, his most loved passion was being Santa to the thousands of kids in the Windsor-Essex community. He was the number one Santa for the Ford Motor Company and Santa for Essex parade for 15 years and Costco Windsor. He visited multiple schools, children’s wards at the hospitals, and hundreds of home visits throughout the holiday season. It wasn’t unusual for children to approach him in the off-season, because he truly looked the part of the BEST Santa ever. Candy canes were a year-round treat. Although he suffered many health challenges over the years, Ray was definitely a man of determination, courage, and was the ultimate example of “living life to the fullest.”
To say he will be missed is an understatement.
As per Ray’s wishes, cremation has taken place.
A private ceremony with immediate family will follow to honour and celebrate Ray’s life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Dougall), 519-254-2585. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca