Raymond F. Millie

Obituary Raymond F. Millie 1/20/1929 - 4/29/2018 Ray was born in Tacoma, on January 20, 1929, to Michael and Margaret Millie. He attended Sherman, Mason and Bellarmine Prep as well as Bates Business School. Ray's was a life well lived. Drafted out of high school by the Cleveland Indians he pitched for their farm system for 3 years ending his baseball career with the Seattle Rainiers. 30 fulfilling years with Tacoma Fire Department forged lifelong friendships and a wealth of memories. Ray and his wife Gretchen retired to Greenwater, he was then able then to pursue full-time his passions of skiing, hiking, and biking. Ray felt extremely fortunate to be able to do so for more years than he had worked. Ray logged many miles in his beloved mountains, summiting Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. He spent countless hours on his bike, his trip down the OR /CA coastline ending in San Francisco was one of his highlights along with rafting the Grand Canyon. He loved traveling visiting all 50 states, every Canadian province, Ireland, and the Panama Canal. Cannon Beach, OR and the campus of Notre Dame were just a few of Ray's "happy spots". He was a consummate sports fan, if not in person then watching on t.v. or listening on the radio. For many years he was a UW and Cheney Stadium season ticket holder. From its inaugural season in 1960 Ray never missed a season at Cheney Stadium. He was a voracious reader and particularly loved books on American History and Sports. Ray cherished his 30 years in Greenwater where he and Gretchen made numerous friends that were welcomed into their home as family and whose lives will be forever touched by his gentle nature, kindness and support. With them they made enough memories for two lifetimes. Ray was married to Gretchen for 65 years. They raised 5 children, Patti (Mark Shingledecker), Julie (Tom Moore), Joe (Karin), Matt (Maureen) and Danny (Janet), 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Ray was preceded in death by his sister, Geri Dodds. Ray was devoted to his family, friends, and faith and was an honorary dad and grandfather to many. He was beloved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family would like to give a special thank you to his caregivers at the Titlow Adult Family for taking such loving care of Ray during his final few months. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home