October 1942 ~ November 2018
Peter (Pete) Raya passed away on Thursday, November 22nd in his Denair home after battling cancer. He was surrounded by his loving wife Vivian, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and faithful dog Bear-Bear, who stayed by his side through the final months of his illness.
Pete, born October 16th, 1942 in Hickman, CA to Genero Raya and Juanita Del Bosque Raya, attended Turlock Schools where he met and fell in love with Vivian Heard. The High School Sweethearts were married August 31st, 1960, moved to Denair, and raised their family of one girl and two boys.
Although a Truck Driver of 30 years and a Millwright Specialist of 25, Pete always found time for his true passion of Art. Self-taught and celebrated by many, he created amazing images of American Indians and Wildlife; his canvas of choice being sheet metal and tool a complex airbrush. Aside from his work and passion for art, Pete was a quiet spiritual man, taking pleasure in the simple wonders of everyday life and spending time with those he loved.
It took only a few moments in Pete’s presence to see he was a man full of love, respect, loyalty and pride. He taught that anything worth doing was worth doing right and following through with his actions. Loving his wife so profoundly for 58 years, he showed that marriage was worth the time, sacrifice and devotion to your spouse. Never breaking a promise, he showed that it was important to keep the trust of others and to not take on more than could be handled, but if you did he was there to lend a helping hand. Patiently creating works of art, he showed that attention to detail and use of imagination was a tool worth exercising and growing. His effortless forgiveness showed that a father’s love is never ending.
His infectious laugh and never ending smile will be missed by many, and although gone from sight, he’ll never be gone from our memories.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents and sisters: Gloria Raya, Socorro Cruz and Mary Garcia. He is survived by his wife Vivian Raya; children: Brenda(Mark) Fagundes, Timothy(Jennifer Raya) and Peter Raya; grandchildren: Alysia, Garrett, Ashlee, Brenton, Amanda & Breeanna; great grandchildren: Clayton, Taylor, Steven, Chloe, Carson & John. He is also survived by his brothers John D. Raya and David Raya, and sisters Josephine Esquer Raya and Virginia Garcia.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Covenant Care Hospice who led them through the difficulty of Pete’s final weeks with genuine love and respect. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to: Covenant Care Hospice or the American Cancer Society.
A viewing is scheduled for Thursday, November 29th, 2018 from 4-7 pm at Allen Mortuary. A Graveside service will be held at Denair Cemetery on Friday, November 30th, 2018 at 1 pm with a reception to follow.
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Betty Barry says
November 30, 2018 at 1:19 amVivian, I’m so sorry to hear about Pete. May he R.I.P. Sending hugs, love and prayers to you and your family.
Henry Jackson says
November 29, 2018 at 1:45 amA true example of a great man who treated everyone as family
Irma Martinez says
November 28, 2018 at 6:17 pmMy thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Vivian. May his soul RIP and may our Lord grant you peace
Darilyn Watts says
November 28, 2018 at 4:58 amMy deepest condolences for your loss Amanda and family!
Stacey Fulton says
November 28, 2018 at 3:30 amNo words can express the deep sorrow that is felt for such a talented man. It was an honor to know Pete. I will miss him dearly as he was the true Master and teacher of murals and pinstriping. I wish I could have spent more time with him in recent years. Deepest sympathy for the whole family.
RIP, Pete.
Shelly Bible says
November 28, 2018 at 2:56 amUncle Pete was an amazing man. I have been in the family for 40 years, only with in in the same place 3 times, I never
Felt anything but warmth and welcome from him. His smile could light up any room and always made you feel like you were the only thing he had to worry about . We love you Uncle Pete and will miss you forever more. Until we meet again.