Raymond "Ray" Loponen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, engineer, musician, artist, and friend, born on June 17th, 1944, in Geraldton, ON, passed away at the age of 80 on June 13th, 2025, in Thunder Bay. His journey through life was marked by a robust curiosity, keen intellect, playful spirit, a sense of humour, and an undeniable love for his family, creative outlets, and work.
Ray’s earlier years were spent in Longlac, ON with his immediate and extended family. He loved sharing stories of skiing, engineering projects, playing music, and getting into mischief with his friends. He talked fondly of time spent at their summer camp and being immersed in nature.
Ray studied Electronic Technology and Physics at Ryerson University, after which he moved to Thunder Bay. He worked for Ontario Hydro, first as a Linesman and eventually as an Engineer and Project Manager in remote, Northern Ontario communities. He always spoke fondly of the relationships he built when travelling up north and felt proud of the work he was involved in.
Shortly after moving to Thunder Bay, he met his to be wife of 50 years, Angela, while playing a show with the Black Knights. In the early years of their marriage, Ray built a recording studio in their basement and welcomed many musicians through his door. Ray was a talented electronic bass player, who over the years played in various bands and enjoyed many genres of music such as rock, folk, and bluegrass. In his later years he played with the Uncalled Four and the Pelimanni Orchestra. He also enjoyed woodworking and often had to be coaxed out of the garage, away from his various building projects. He was involved in photo restoration, and creating graphic designs and logos. Ray and Angela loved spending time socializing with others, playing cards, spending time at Audrey and Frank’s camp, travelling, and living life to the fullest.
Ray and Angela had two daughters, Charlene and Sheryl, who he loved to share his creativity and passions with and instilled the importance of independence, hard work, and creative outlets. Together, they celebrated life's many milestones and cherished the tapestry of moments woven from their shared experiences. Family was the cornerstone of Ray's life. His beloved wife, Angela, daughters Charlene and Sheryl, were great sources of his pride and joy. He always cherished time spent with his sisters, Audrey and Lillian, and their families; his closest friends; and his extended family and granddaughter.
Described as creative, intelligent, and loving, Ray consistently exhibited an innate ability to see the world not just as it was, but as it could be, through his unbridled imagination and scientific insight. His legacy is not solely in the projects he completed or the stages he graced, but in the lessons he imparted and the love he shared
Ray’s life mission: “I will find the peace of mind I need to release my total creative potential; and to apply and improve present technology to enhance the quality of life and environment for others, my family and me.”
As the final notes of his life fade into silence, Raymond Loponen will be profoundly missed and eternally celebrated by all those fortunate enough to have been part of his life's journey. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come. May he rest in peace, leaving this world much the better for his being in it.
A Celebration of Life will be held privately at a later date.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
