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Raymond (Ray), a man who cherished the outdoors and embodied the spirit of a true craftsman, passed away on January 8, 2024 peacefully at his home in Grand Coulee at the age of 85.

Born in Denver, Colorado on June 21, 1938 to Dorothy and Raymond (Sr) Burge, Ray grew up embracing the natural beauty and rugged landscapes of Colorado and Washington. He lived in Wray, Colorado where he helped run the family dry cleaning business. Ray graduated and then married Sylvia Kramer in 1957 as well as briefly attended the University of Colorado. They had two children, Debra (1958) and Mark (1960).

Later, Ray would move his family to Electric City in 1970 where he became the Budget Officer for the Bureau of Reclamation. Ray was a also a devoted Free Mason and served many years for Grand Coulee Lodge #120, where he was awarded the Grand Masters Achievement Award in 2001 as well as the Hiram Award in 2010.

Ray met and married Shannon (Schmidt) in 1990 and built a home on Lake Roosevelt. Ray retired from the Bureau of Reclamation in 1995.

Ray's love for the outdoors was not just a pastime, but a way of life. He loved to fish, hunt, boat on Lake Roosevelt and finding solace and joy in the Manastash mountains. His hands, built not just a home, but a haven for him, his beloved wife and companion felines.

Ray is survived by his, wife, best friend and companion of 33 years, Shannon and his sister Arline Boyce, of Ft. Collings, CO. Raymond's legacy continues through his daughter, Debra (Chuck) Thurston of Rainier, Wash., , grandson Ryan Thurston of Rainier Wash., granddaughter Vanessa (Gary) Sadeckas and his adored great granddaughters, Taylor, Julia and Cora Sadeckas from East Amherst, NY.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents Dorothy and Raymond, son Mark Burge and his eldest sister Sally Scheer.

His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. As we bid farewell to Ray, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of adventure, love and quiet dignity.

At his request, there will be no service. Ray wanted his life to be celebrated. Family, friends and others whose lives Ray touched are welcome to join us for a celebration of life that will be held this coming spring.