Ramon Gamez Vasquez

Ramon “Ray” Gamez Vasquez entered eternal rest at the age of 68 on Saturday, January 13, 2024, with his family at his side.

Ray was born on November 11, 1955, in Palestine, Texas to Ramon and Maria Vasquez. The family relocated to Gardena, California when Ray was still a young boy. The oldest of 6 children, he was a natural leader; a quality that would define him for his entire life. As a teenager, he met the love of his life, Lupe Aros. They were married in July of 1974 and settled in Porterville, California in 1979 to raise their two children, Melissa & Reyes. The family made their final move to Hanford, California in June of 1990.

Ray was a true businessman and entrepreneur. He excelled as a manufacturing manager, consultant, and business owner in many different industries including apparel, dairy, farming, and specialized medical devices. Ray was a proud and well-respected member of the Hanford community, generously giving his time to organizations including the Hanford Chamber of Commerce, the Tulare-Kings Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Knights of Columbus. He greatly enjoyed participating in the Special Olympics Chili Cook-Off and cooking breakfast for various charitable organization events.

Ray was a hardworking man with a constant list of projects in progress. Around his home, aka “The Compound,” he could often be found tinkering in his shop, tending to his extensive garden, and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. A true family man, he was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones with the grill fired up and his music playing. He relished his role as patriarch and led his family with integrity, wisdom, confidence, and love. He could always be counted on to have a helping hand ready for his neighbors and friends and a good story to share.

When Ray’s health began to fail, he responded with courage and strength. For many years he met every obstacle with fierce determination and fortitude. He remained a valiant warrior to the very last moments of his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Maria Vasquez; siblings, Rosa Vasquez and Jose Vasquez; nephew, Joaquin Galindo; and brother-in-law, Vincent Rojas.

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Lupe Vasquez; son, Reyes Vasquez; daughter and son-in-law, Melissa & Jason Lincicum; and grandchildren, Mia & Maddox Lincicum. Siblings, Teresa & Albert Portillo of Grass Valley, Maria Rojas of Lakewood, Rene Vasquez of Porterville and many dearly loved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst-McNamara Funeral Home, January 31st, 2024, from 4:00 - 6:00 pm with the Rosary beginning at 6:00 pm.  Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 am on February 1st, 2024, at St. Brigid Catholic Church with a graveside service immediately following at Calvary Cemetery.

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