Verl Charles “Chuck” Ray passed away on Nov. 12, 2025 in Walla Walla, Wash. at the age of 76 after a short battle with liver cancer.
He was born on Feb. 13, 1949 in Salem.
Chuck married Donna M. Ray on Aug. 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 to 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 Nov. 29, 2025 at 11 a.m.
A celebration of life will be in the spring, location and time to be determined.
In lieu 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 in care of Doug Starkel, 5501 Ducklake Road N., Odessa, Wash., 99159.
