Thursday, August 19, 2021
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I first met Ray in the late 1990’s when he, and a few of his friends, beat me up. Let me explain further. This was when Upstate opened and I was there with Albany CERT teaching cell extraction training to the officers, including Ray. From the first time we met, we “hit it off” so to speak, lol. Throughout the next several years, I would see Ray from time to time until 9/11 happened. We then worked together a lot more frequently at the State Capital Building. I remember that he always had the latest and greatest cell phones thanks to his wife Kelly, who worked in this field. I also remember how proud he was of her and his boys who were getting into hockey and traveling around playing. His family probably remembers the little camper I sold him so they had a place to stay when traveling with the boys during the hockey season. Soon after this, Ray began to work at the Training Academy and ultimately Albany CERT, where we worked together nearly every day until I retired 6 years ago. One thing retirement does, especially when you live a couple of hours away from where you retired, is remove you from your friends. I truly miss many of the friends I made at the Training Academy, including Ray. I will always have, and cherish the memories from that time of my life. I have followed Ray’s struggles over the last few years with that horrible disease, and feel comforted knowing that he is no longer suffering. Ray will be looking over us until we see him again. Rest In Peace Friend.
Only You Can Make The Right Choice.