RAYMOND J VISTA

Raymond “Ray” J. Vista, passed away with his family surrounding him on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. He was born to Bertha (nee Bina) and Jerry C. Vista on December 30, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio.  

In addition to his parents, he is reunited with his siblings, Donald Vista and Diane (Harley) Brady.

He will be missed by his loving partner of 16 years, Camille Shamrock; his children, David (Nancy) Vista, Daniel Vista, and Renne (Troy) Eckstine; Camille’s children, Kim Shamrock, and Pam (Melvin) Czech; sister, Carol (Dave) Cortnik; grandchildren, Matthew Eckstine, Lucas Vista, Sarah Eckstine, Lindsey Vista, Nicole Jackson, Cody Jackson, Emely Czech, Noah Kesman, and Zoey Kesman; great-grandchildren, Myles, Eva, Bryan, Blake, Brooke, Jaxon, Lucy, Milli, and Bentley.

Raymond was a man whose smile could light up any room and whose laughter was a remedy for the soul. His 97 years were a testament to a life lived with joy, love, and boundless positivity.

Ray’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with stories of adventure, humor, and unwavering connection to others. His storytelling was legendary – true tales told with such humor and heart that listeners hung on his every word. To know Ray was to know laughter as he made it his mission to bring a smile to every face he encountered.

Ray had a deep love for the great outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and camping were his passions, and he found solace and adventure in nature’s embrace. Geneva-on-the-Lake held a special place in his heart; so much so that he built a cabin there and made it his haven. He loved the area so much that he purchased a horse on the local merry-go-round, a whimsical testament to his fun-loving spirit. If you ever happen to visit Geneva-on-the-Lake, you are encouraged to take a ride in Ray’s honor. He would love to know his joy continues to spread.

A proud patriot, Ray served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955 as a Parachute Rigger. His service and dedication to his country earned him an induction into the Armed Services Hall of Fame. After his military service, Ray found family and camaraderie among his fellow veterans at VFW Post #5137 in Medina and later the VFW Post #234 in Brunswick. Being among his fellow vets brought him immense pride and joy.

Ray’s love for community extended to his memberships in the Fraternal Order of Eagles, as Ray never met a stranger.

Above all, Ray adored his family, especially his grandchildren. Spending time with them was his greatest joy, and his love for them was unmatched.

Ray’s legacy is one of warmth, humor, and kindness. He was a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.

Services are Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 1:45 p.m. at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery where he will receive honors and be at rest alongside his fellow service men and women. Those wishing to attend the service can meet at the cemetery at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment and share a laugh with a loved one, enjoy the great outdoors, or visit Ray’s horse on the merry-go-round in Geneva-on-the Lake.