Verl "Chuck" Ray

Verl “Chuck” Charles Ray was born February 13, 1949 in Salem, OR. He passed away after a short battle with liver cancer in Walla Walla, WA on November 12, 2025.

Chuck married Donna M. Ray August 21, 1971. He worked most of his life with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in the hunter education department. He taught hunter education for over 30 years. He also trained volunteers to become certified hunter education instructors. His main hobby involved anything with a firearm. If it burned gun powder, Chuck enjoyed it.  His greatest joy was passing along his love of firearms and hunting onto the next generation.  Chuck volunteered on numerous committees to raise funds for shooting and hunting groups. He spent countless hours teaching anyone and everyone how to shoot safely.  Many kids shot their first deer, pheasant, or quail on his property.  If Chuck wasn’t home, you could find him at a gun range.  

Chuck is survived by his wife, Donna Ray, his sons Chad Ray and Jason Ray: grandkids Alyssa Moss, Emily Ray and Cody Ray: and great grandkids Waylon and Lilah. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Byron Ray and Ramona Buttle, sister Marcia Savage, and brother Allen Ray.

A graveside service for the family will be on November 29, 2025 at 11am. A celebration of life will be in the spring. Location and time to be determined.

In lue of flowers please donate to the Marlin Gun Club.  This was Chuck’s passion, shooting and teaching kids to shoot. You can send checks to the Marlin Gun Club ℅ Doug Starkel 5501 Ducklake Rd N, Odessa WA 99159.

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