Ramon 'Ray' Delbert Ingersoll passed away in the comfort of his home on May 22
nd
2021, in the arms of his beloved wife and surrounded by his loving family.
Ray, was born on 1/2/34, a date that much like him, is a phenomenon witnessed only once in a millennia. His parents were Charlotte Mott and Fred Ingersoll. He is survived by his wife; Minnie, his daughter; Sheryl, his son; Raymond, his granddaughters; Krystal and Kelly; his son-in-law; Jimmy, and his daughter-in-law; Lynda.
A tank driver and Sargent in the Korean War, Ray lived and breathed all things patriotic. To see him was to know that you were within arm's reach of an American flag, a burger, and questionably legal fireworks. But nobody knew how to use those fireworks like Ray. No man could ever love holidays more. Whether it was the 4
th
of July, Christmas, or St. Patrick's Day, Ray celebrated in only the most spectacular of fashions, going all out every single year to create a truly magical day for his family and any other person who showed up to the house. Ray's love of celebrating paired well with his genius and incredible artistic talent. The Ingersoll home was always filled with one-of-a-kind painted pieces and illuminated with animatronic figures, moving scenes and musical villages before they were even commercially invented. It was also filled with meows, barks and whatever sound baby raccoons make, as Ray deeply loved and cared for any animal he came across.
Ray was together for 70 years (married for 65) to his best friend, confidant, and partner in crime Minnie. Together they created a home and raised two children, Sheryl and Raymond, and two grandchildren, Krystal and Kelly. Their home was a refuge and sanctuary to all who entered it. The phrase "Nana and Pop Pop" was synonymous with "love." The phrase "We're going to Nana and Pop Pop's house," however, was synonymous with "I hope you brought your stretchy pants." The perfect day for Ray consisted of watching classic movies (of which he had an encyclopedic knowledge), followed by either his wife or daughter's cooking, and a twinkie, some fudge, or whatever other sweets he could get his hands on.
He partook in all the paths and adventures life had to offer. There wasn't an item he couldn't fix, a piece of music he couldn't play, or a candy he wouldn't eat. He was a brilliant elevator mechanic of 35 years, dedicating his life to lifting people in every sense of the word. He drove race cars from the age of 17 well into his 70's, passing on and nurturing the love and skills of the track to daughter Sheryl and son Raymond. Sheryl who followed in his tread marks through a storied and successful career as a driver herself. Raymond drove for some years also. His expertise with the automobiles themselves was passed on to Raymond, who today works as a production manager.
There are no words in the English language to convey how sorely Ray will be missed. However, we think it best fits to leave you with a quote from one of his favorite movies, "
It's a Wonderful Life."
"Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"
Special thanks to his loyal caretaker Kim.