Steven Leonard Ray

Steven Leonard Ray entered this life on September 4, 1955, to Leonard Franklin Ray and Alvira Jane Nellist in Maquoketa, Iowa. Steve was the second youngest of 7 children: brothers, Larry (Barb) Adkins, David (Pat) Adkins, Jerry Turner; and sisters, Jane (Leon) Wilson, Jean (Benny) Malone, and Jan (Dick) Eilders.

At the age of 18, Steve enlisted in the United States Marine Corps as a Rifleman, allowing him to travel the world. His favorite assignment was being stationed in Okinawa, Japan. He made many friends with the locals during his time there. He always talked about a particular friend named Tommy, who he said taught him how to use chopsticks. Steve was proud to learn about Japanese culture. In 1976, he transferred to the Marine Corps Reserves where he continued to serve his country. While in the military he earned the rank of Sergeant and was awarded many honors such as the Rifle Expert Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. Following his service with the Marine Corps, he continued to serve with the Army National Guard of Iowa until honorably discharged in 1984.

After returning home from the military, Steve met Cathy Prussing and they were married on August 25, 1979. They were blessed with 1 daughter, Tiffany, on May 30, 1982. Steve was a devoted father and loving husband to both Tiffany and Cathy. In 1995, Steve and Cathy were divorced but remained close friends. On August 12, 2002, Steve found love again with Mary Louise Vail. They were married and very committed to each other. Together they enjoyed hiking, taking rides in the mountains, enjoying hot springs, and occasionally going on trips to Cripple Creek.

In his free time, Steve enjoyed helping his brother Larry with different jobs: roofing, cement work, pretty much anything just so long as he got to spend time with Larry. He enjoyed fixing things on and around the house. He was an avid animal lover; throughout his life, he was blessed with many animals and passed on that love to his daughter and granddaughters. His beloved dog, Scooby, was often the subject of pictures and conversations since he loved watching TV with Steve. Steve loved to send his daughter and grandkids gifts and cards. They would often exchange funny pictures and videos with each other. Even though they were miles apart, they always knew how to show their love for each other. Steve took pride in his grandchildren and told them often how much they meant to him. He was a collector of many things: action figures (he particularly liked Superman), cars, knives, coins, and flashlights. Steve also enjoyed displaying and caring for the American Flag he had posted in his front yard. He attended AA meetings regularly and enjoyed helping others as well.

Steve entered the gates of Heaven on October 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. He leaves behind his wife, Mary; dog, Scooby; daughter, Tiffany (Tre) Colbert; stepchildren, Chris (Nicole) Vail, Adrienne (Grant) Graham, and Daniel Vail; grandchildren, Jasmine, Brooklynn, Jack, and James; several siblings, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Alvira; brother, Jerry; sister, Jean; 2 sons; granddaughter, Arionna; and many others who were dear to him.

Graveside services will be held Monday, October 25, 2021, at 1:00 PM at Pikes Peak National Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

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