Raymond Arthur Dilling
February 26, 2024
Passed away surrounded by family at Victoria Hospital on February 26th, 2024 at the age of 68 years. Loving husband to Patty Lynn Dilling (née Shaw) with whom he shared 36 years of marriage. Devoted and loving dad of Jenna Dilling (Jeff) and Kendra Dilling (Nate). Cherished “Papa” to Ford Alexander, Atlas James, and Dean Arthur. Brother to Larry Dilling (Janet). Ray will forever be cherished and remembered by his cousin Jerry Stephen, his uncle Ross Dilling, his best friends, and by many nieces, nephews, and extended Shaw family. Words can’t describe how profoundly loved he was and how missed he will be.
Ray was a man of genuine character and heart. He was your biggest advocate, supporter and your greatest confidant. Spending many years of his life in the charitable sector; love, family, and community were always at the forefront of everything he did. Ray always had the drive and commitment to build community and help those in need. He lived by the words- “If you have a job you love — you’ll never work a day in your life.”, and this resounded triumphantly in the work he did, serving his community.
With his profound love of athletics, Ray graduated from the University of Western Ontario and eventually became the Executive Director at the Bob Hayward YMCA. His work at Hospice of London as the Executive Director followed and he championed many projects and charitable campaigns, including his involvement with Holy Family Parish. Ray’s most recent community involvement was with L’Arche London Gathering Place and L‘Arche Stratford Capital Campaign where he saw the day-to-day operations as the Campaign Manager. Over the years Ray also involved himself in various charitable organizations including: London Chamber of Commerce, London and Middlesex United Way, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Children’s Wish Foundation, TVOntario, and many more. He truly left his mark and impact on our community.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London. The visitation will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 12:00 – 2:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., with the funeral service being held on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. A livestream of the service will be available for those unable to attend.
To register for the livestream, please click here: Remembering Raymond
As an expression of sympathy, please consider a donation to one of the following organizations in memory of Ray:
L’Arche London (Address: 4448 Colonel Talbot Rd, London, ON N6P 1B6), L‘Arche Stratford (400 Huron St, Stratford, ON N5A 5T5), Saint Vincent de Paul Society – Holy Family Parish (777 Valetta St, London, ON N6H 2Y9).
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I was blessed in life to have Ray as a friend, mentor, adivisor and activity partner. Ray always looked out for the greater good for others especially those with special needs. Family was always at the center of his life, he was deeply in love with his wife Patty and his girls, later expanding to there significant partners and his three grandchildren. I trust Ray is in eternal rest and peace free from the pain endured in this world.
We are so saddened by Ray’s passing. He was the one person in the room that made us all better and he would quietly encourage us. The L’Arche London Gathering Place is because of his dedication and love. We are blessed. Patty, Jenna, Kendra and family, we can only imagine your loss. Know that you are in our prayers.
Patty, please accept, on behalf of all the members of his rugby club who held him in great esteem, my most sincere condolences for your loss. He will always be fondly remembered as a gentleman on and off the field.
Aunt Patty, Jenna, Kendra and Families. I am very sorry for the loss of your Husband, Father and Papa. Uncle Ray was a very sweet man and will be remembered by all. May the memories you shared with him stay in your hearts forever. Lots of Love, Hugs and Prayers to all of you. 🙏 Love Little Jackie, T, Mitchell and Cassidy. Xoxo
A donation has been made to L’Arche London. Message from the donator: We wish your family peace and comfort as you grieve the loss of Ray. Love, Steve Southon, Rachel & Colleen Allison
Ray, It’s hard to think about letting you go right now. I’m grateful that we got to know each other over the years, and I really appreciate our bond and the many great conversations and jokes we shared. Seeing how proud and loving of a dad you were to the girls was inspirational and heartwarming. I hope you know how much we all love you. Dean will hear all the stories about Papa Ray and he’ll be proud. I know you’re resting well now. You’re with us forever, Ray. Much love, Jeff.
A donation has been made to Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Message from the donator: Dear Patty. My sincere sympathy to you and your family. Jane Engels.
Dearest Patty, sending prayers and peace to you and your family. I remember your words to me " TRUST GOD". Please know, Ray will always be CLOSE, we just can't see him.
Patty and family, My heart breaks for you at this very sad time. Ray was a very special person and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Patty, Jenna and Kendra I am so sorry for your loss. Ray always made me feel welcomed and like I was a part of the family. His sense of humour and intelligence were so admirable, and I will miss him very much. Sending lots of love and light.
Ray was a lovely man who I first met through Hospice of London. He was kind and caring with a big heart for community. Condolences to the Dilling Family. Jayne Graham
A donation has been made. Message from the donator: Patty and family so sorry for your loss Take care
Love you forever Daddy ❤️
Dear Patty and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate through this heartbreaking loss.
Ray was a larger than life person who “dwelt in the land and did good”. His caring and kind heart benefited many and he will be remembered by those who were touch by his generous spirit. Our condolences to his family who can take comfort in knowing their husband, dad, grandfather and relative made a difference.
Rest easy our Brother-in law. You will be missed. You’re going to be with your loved ones in heaven. All our love Liz& Paul
Patty and family, heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved husband and father. Sending our love and sympathy at this very sad time.
Dear Patty, Jenna, Kendra and family. Deep shock it was to learn of Ray's death, deep shock it is still. To visit this site tells me it is real and irreversible, it is so painful. With Tony, we desire to offer our sincere condolences Patty for your loss of a husband, a father, and a proud grandfather. The world has lost someone with a big generous heart who worked humbly and tirelessly in the not-for-profit sector. I cannot imagine Patty the ocean-deep pain of your loss. A piece of your heart went with him. And Jenna and Kendra his eyes were overflowing with joy when he spoke of each one of you, your character, your accomplishments, your little ones. I feel so blessed to have known Ray, a caring kind compassionate man. Our prayers hold you during this time of saying goodbye to his physical presence in your life. Much much love, in the hope of the Ressurection. RIP Ray.
Services for Raymond Arthur Dilling
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 7, 2024 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 7, 2024 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Funeral Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
March 8, 2024 11:00 am
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
I am still in disbelief that Ray was taken so unexpectedly. His kindness & being a true gentleman who inspired & brought life to many corporations out of his own unconditional love always be cherished. Rest well, good & faithful servant of God! 💖
~ Kelly Wilson