Obituary of Dr. Ray Knight

The family of Dr. Ray Knight sadly share the news of his passing at the age of 97. Ray is survived by his wife Evelyn, together for 69 years. Ray and Evelyn lovingly raised four children and he will be sadly missed by Nancy and Gil Smith, Scott Knight and Carol Gibson, Todd and Ingrid Knight and Corey and Donna Knight. Ray was “Grandpa Doc” to Callie and Andrew Murray, Lauren and Kyle Karn, Dr. Tristan Knight (Dr. Lindsey Carvalho), Andrew Knight, Dr. Samantha Knight, Tayler Knight (Mike Alden), Lucas Knight (Sophie Janauskas) Jeff and Sheri Smith and Julie Smith and great grandchildren Kay, Tess and Brant Murray, Jack Karn, Lexi Smith, Lily and Jax. Ray was a graduate of the University of Toronto school of Dentistry. He made long lasting friendships there and many more friends, while practising dentistry in St. Thomas for over forty years. Ray loved dentistry and was dedicated to providing the best possible care for his patients; he retired in 1991. Locally, Ray was a past member and president of the St, Thomas Lions Club, the Elgin Dental Association, the Western Ontario Dental Study Group, the Elgin Military Museum, and the St. Thomas Power Squadron. He served for 26 years in the Canadian Dental Corp, attached to the Elgin Regiment, attaining the rank of Major. Ray was a long time member of the St. Thomas YMCA and an earlier adopter of “jogging”. He could be found spending his lunch hours running with life long friend Bob Francis. Ray learned to swim at the age of 45. Ray and Evelyn shared their much loved island, summer home on Georgian Bay with family and friends creating many happy memories. Ray and Eve loved the natural beauty of the ”Bay” and their enthusiasm along with cottage tradition rubbed off on many within the family and beyond. Having been introduced to and bitten by the “cottage bug” Many former guests became cottagers as well. Ray always had a special spot in his heart for neighbours around the Bay, who often became life long friends. Ray was methodical and happiest “puttering” at the cottage in a faded T-shirt and torn shorts. He could often be found in the “tool house”, trying to “fix” something. Ray also enjoyed photography and his methodical nature required getting the subjects posed, the camera focused and settings just so, resulting in a certain amount of impatience from others. Photography lent itself well to Ray and Evelyn’s enthusiasm for travel. Ray‘s photos captured memories of cruises throughout various parts of the world and winters spent in Mexico. Ray liked cars and his favourites were convertibles. Over the years he owned a red 1956 Oldsmobile convertible, a Triumph TR4 and a Mazda RX7. Ray and Evelyn enjoyed dancing and spent many happy years participating in ballroom dancing. As retirement approached, he took up a new hobby making jewellery and enjoyed sharing his creations with family. While Ray’s hands have now been stilled, this follows a long and satisfying life. Ray was predeceased by his parents Olga and Emerson Knight and a sister, Rita Bernard. Our heartfelt thanks are extended to the Metcalfe Gardens family and the Complex Continuing Care Unit staff at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, where Ray experienced so much kindness, care and patience. We are truly touched. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570). Reception to be held at a later date. Internment of ashes in Union United Church Cemetery. If desired, donations to the STEGH Foundation would be appreciated. Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca Dad, may you rest In Peace.