On January 6, 2024, Raymond ‘Ray’ William Eby passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family. Ray was 73 years old and ended a battle with Mantle Cell Lymphoma.
Ray was the first of two sons born to William and Marlene in Sheridan, Montana on July 9, 1950. He attended Hawthorne elementary school in Helena, where he would later proudly pick up his granddaughters from school. His lifelong passion for baseball and golf ignited at a young age with endless games of catch and practice swings in the yard.
He graduated from Helena High School in 1968 and later became a firefighter, which led him to meet his wife while investigating safety in her office building – it was love at first sight. Ray married the love of his life, Diane Marie Dietrich at St. Cyril Methodius Church in East Helena on January 11, 1975.
Ray worked at Allen’s Super Store (Electric), Montana State Fund, and Dept. of Transportation while continuing his education and training in occupational safety and health technology. He retired after 25 years with the State of MT as a supervisor of safety and health occupation.
He raised his kids with not just his love of sports as he coached them and cheered for them across the state, but it was through sports that he exemplified and taught life values. Impressed by the personality of golfers – the esteemed players of a “gentleman’s game” – he naturally embodied the traits he praised. While too humble to admit, he was akin to the professionals at a tournament he played in whom he described as “soft-spoken, considerate, and a pleasure to be around.” Sportsmanship qualities of respect, fairness, humility, and kindness made Ray who he was.
Ray’s gentle heart welcomed many – including an exchange student from Japan who still thinks of him as a father and his daughter-in-law and son-in-law who he loved just as he did his children.
Later years included baseball trips and cruises – despite his dislike for travel, his love couldn’t help but appease Diane and they enjoyed trips together. This quiet introvert’s patience extended even to lively gatherings of his wife’s large family. A well-read, well-rounded, and open-minded listener, he could comment on almost any topic – although unlikely unless probed.
His appreciation of the arts rivaled that of sports when he was the proudest fan in audiences for his granddaughters’ plays, dance, or music recitals. Hearing “Papa” brightened his eyes on even the darkest days.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ed, and granddaughter Jacqueline. He is survived by his wife Diane; his son Brett (Amanda) and their daughters Olivia and Caroline; and his daughter Danielle (Mike) and their sons David and Joey.
Donations in memorial can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or the Ramsey Keller Memorial.
A Celebration of Life will be at 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Anderson Stevenson & Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. with a reception to follow in the Social Hall of the funeral home.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday January 20, 2024
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the service
Saturday January 20, 2024
Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday January 20, 2024
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the service
Saturday January 20, 2024
Social Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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Sally Russell says
So sorry to hear this. He was a great guy
Anndina and Lynn Halvorsen says
Diane and family,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. He will be missed by so many. I hope that you can hold onto your happy memories to help you through the tough times. And may we all find peace knowing he is Resting in Peace illness free and in the loving arms of our Lord. Sending all of you so much love and so many prayers.
Vicki Duncan says
Diane and family, I am so sorry to hear about Ray. May the many fun memories of your lives together help you through your loss. I am heartbroken for you, the kids and the grands. Ray was always a gentleman and a gentle person♥️
Janet Rivera says
Sending so much love your way, sweet Diane.
Carol & Steve Athearn says
Diane and family, Steve and I are so sorry to hear about Ray. He was such a great guy. Remember the happy memories and love you shared. We won’t be able to attend his service as we’ll be attending the service for Steve’s cousin in Stanwood, Washington on the 20th. Our prayers to you all and our love.
Teresa Graham says
Diane and family, my heart is breaking for you. I have never known a man I respected as much as Ray. He was one of the best husbands, fathers, grandfathers and friends I have known. You have so many precious memories of his life with you hold fast to those to see you through this. Love and prayers to you all.
Toshie Kashiwabara says
I am so sorry to hear about Ray. I have been thiking of you and family since the day I heard about Ray’s passing. I am deeply sad and heartbroken. At the same time, I am very grateful that I could meet Ray and you 38 years ago. I am sorry that I won’t be able to attend his service. I will love and remember him forever.
Kevin Bartsch says
I had the pleasure of working with Ray early on in my State Fund careen. I’ve encountered very few, if any, people in life who were as gentle and kind as Ray. His soft spoken and exceedingly pleasant demeanor will be missed. I’d periodically see him out walking on Benton Ave. and often recall back to those days working together. He was a good man. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Ann M Buss says
Ray was such a devoted Grandpa. I loved attending Olivia and Caroline events with Ray and Diane. Ann
Gail Pocha says
Diane and Family, Ray will be missed by so many. His kindness touched so many people. I was one of the fortunate ones that got the pleasure of knowing Ray.
Diane and Family you are in my prayers.
Diane says
Diane and family
I am so sorry to learn that Ray passed away. I worked with Ray at Montana State Fund and remember what a kind person he was. My sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time.Diane Pedersen
Jan Vogel says
Diane and family, we were shocked to hear about Ray’s death. I share the sentiments of others about Ray being so kind, gentle and soft spoken. What wonderful memories we have back when Danielle and Jennifer played softball together. He was taken from this life too soon. Our deepest condolences!
Sherry and Tom Cladouhos says
Diane and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. Our sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time. Prayers are with you.
Chris and Skip Eby says
Diane this was just the worst news and we are so sad. So many people knew and loved Ray. We are sending you, Brett, Danielle and the families all our love.
Peggy Yuhas says
I am heart broken for you and your family. I am here if you need anything. I love you!!!
Jeff Sherlock says
I was in the same cub scout troop (Den 2) as Ray in 1958. He always brought the best treats. From reading all the above comments, it is clear that he continued to be the same great guy until the end. Peace to his family.
Bob Moon says
I was shocked to see this news. I had opportunities to gold with Ray. He was a gentle soul and a pleasure to be with. Never one to initiate a “hello”, but once engaged, he was with you with a smile and discussion. I’ll miss the guy with warm remembrances.
Paul Martello says
Diane, I just heard the news of Ray passing. Ray was a great guy to be around. I remember all the memories playing softball together. He will be missed by all who knew him. Will keep you and family in my thoughts and prayers. RIP RAY.
JUDY GUDGEL says
Diane I am thinking of you with hugs and warmest thoughts! What’s wonderful human Ray is! What a wonderful life and legacy you have built !!!
Linda Minkoff says
Diane and family, I’m so sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. He was a gentle and kind man. I have fond memories of you all from Babe Ruth baseball. You’re a beautiful family.
God Bless you with joyous memories.
Susan Butler says
A fabulous, well written tribute that totally captured the essence of Ray. May he rest in peace!!
Niel Helfert says
Diane & family Ginny and I are sorry to here of Ray’s passing. We had so many great memories traveling around MT. Playing softball. Rest in peace Ray. God bless.
.
Ryan Nettleton says
Diane, Brett and family, I am so sorry for your loss. From our younger days of baseball trips and these last few years of working with Ray and seeing him at the golf course, he was always a pleasure to be around. He will be missed greatly. I’ll be thinking about you guys.
Jerry Smith says
Diane, Danielle, and Brett, we are deeply saddened to hear of Ray’s passing. He was such a great guy, always with a smile when you greeted him. I enjoyed being around Ray, whether it was coaching or playing softball he was always a tough competitor, while also being a great sport. He was a good example to many of us of how to conduct yourself in sports and life. Wish we could be there for the services. Jerry and Carol
Ron Zeiler says
Ray joined our golf group the past 3 years and he was a true gentleman on the course. Getting to know him and sharing stories of sports and family was always a pleasure. Talking about his granddaughters always brought a smile to his face. He was such a nice guy and will truly be missed. RIP golf buddy⛳️
Carol says
Diane and family, Jerry and I were saddened to hear you lost Ray. Ray was always one to have a smile on his face and was nice to visit with. He had an infectious laugh. May God be with you and your family. Carol and Jerry Dullum
Dave Van Nice says
Diane and family, the words kind and gentle resound in these comments. From are days at Hawthorne grade school together, I never met a kinder gentler soul than Ray. We spent many hours together playing sandlot baseball and debating the fact that he rooted for the Yankees and I rooted for anyone playing the Yankees. I know Ray was a devoted grandfather and I last saw him at one of the football games where Olivia was performing. Rest in Peace Ray!
Mary Brydich says
Diane and Family – I am so sorry for your loss. This is heartbreaking news. I hope your memories will bring you comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michelle Dickey says
Dear Diane and family…I’m so sorry for your loss. Ray’s gentle ways and his great sense of humor with his quiet giggle are what I remember so well. I always looked forward to seeing you and Ray every 6 months. He will be missed. I wish you and your family peace and love.
Michelle Dickey
Patti Eby says
Words cannot express how sad I am about the passing of my dear brother-in-law Ray. He was one of the good guys and will be greatly missed. May our Lord bless you and keep you until we meet again.
Larriann Murphy says
Diane and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Ray. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Larriann and Mike Murphy
Sally Kerstetter Starr says
Diane,
I was sad to hear of Ray’s passing. Although I did not know him, you spoke of him often when we worked together, and I knew he must be special to get such praise from you. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bill Anderson says
I’m really saddened to hear of Ray’s passing. He was the model of a gentleman. I met him at MDT. As I recall, every year during the Christmas holidays, he would bring exquisite crafts by his Mom and we were each allowed to take one with us. His generosity was only exceeded by his kindness. My spouse, Patty, recalls when Diane ran the childcare and has fond memories of both Ray and Diane. Although our lives intersected at different stages, Ray was always an authentic soul.
Inez Slayman says
Heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the Eby family. I worked with Ray for several years at Montana State Fund. May your warm memories help comfort you during this sad time.
Linda Wollitz says
Diane & Family, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. We sure had some good time in the old neighbor. Ray was a wonderful man & father. I worked with his Mom and Aunt at Blue Shield (as it was called them). I give you my prayers!
Bruce Mihelish says
Our deepest sympathies to Diane and family. Ray and I go back to Hawthorne School in the early 60’s. We played Little League together and much, much later in life won a State Softball title in the mid 90’s. He was a player who could really hit and find the gaps. Our teams were always graced by Ray as a polite, classy guy. He was competitive, but always under control. I’m sorry I was not able to say goodbye and get there to pay my respects. Gentle, quiet, and kind are the best descriptions of this very good man.