Ray Albert Gabert

It is with deep sadness that the family of Ray Albert Gabert shares that he passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, in Ponoka Alberta at the age of 90 and a half years. Ray was born on March 24,1935 in Castor Alberta where he spent his early years before leaving for the work that would shape his career and the lifelong love, he would share with his wife for more than six decades.

Ray started his early career with Alberta Transportation, a profession that stayed dear to him for much of his life. In 1960, he paused his work in transportation and moved to Delburne to take on the role of manager at the local lumber yard. A decision that led to the most extraordinary part of his life. One day a young woman named Elaine was riding her horse down Main Street and stopped to chat. From that simple moment on, their love story began. Later that year Elaine moved with her parents to Red Deer, but distance did not deter Ray. He made countless trips to see her, eventually asking for her hand in marriage.

Ray and Elaine were married on September 1, 1962, beginning 63 wonderful years together. That spring Ray returned to Alberta Transportation and the newlyweds traveled all over the province as his work took them from place to place. Along the way they welcomed their three children Darcy, Curtis, and Rhonda, raising them here and there and embracing an adventurous family life before settling down in Red Deer once school years began. Eventually, they made their home on a beautiful farm near Joffre, where they spent many years and created countless happy memories as their family grew.

In 1990, after 30 years of service, Ray retired from Alberta Transportation as an engineering technologist. However, not one to slow down he transitioned into consultation work with Stuart Weir where he continued contributing his expertise until his full retirement in 2018. Over the course of his career, Ray managed and helped build countless roads and highways across Alberta. Routes many people drive every day without knowing the capable hands behind them. So maybe next time you find yourself travelling on a particularly well paved stretch of highway give Ray a little thought.

Ray leaves behind his devoted wife Elaine, their children Darcy (Karen), Curtis (Cindy) and Rhonda, his sister Ellen (Leo); his brother Larry; sister-in-law Helen; and brother-in-law Lorne (Rachel). He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Jordan (Nicole), Kylie (Riley), Meagan (Joe), Rebecca (Brendan), Anthony (Aimee), Melissa (Tim), Tyler, Chase (Taylor), and Tenessa (Michael). Ray was also deeply blessed with TWENTY great-grandchildren: Anna, Holly, John, Olivia, Harper, Matthew, Grayson, Lucy, Beau, Hailey, Elliot, Erika, Cecily, Jack, Desmond, Danielle, Colt, Cash, Kaylee, and Link.

Ray was pre-deceased by his parents, Hazel and Donald; his twin brother Gordon; his brother Denis; and his great-granddaughter Hannah.

Ray will be remembered for his work ethic, dedication, gentle humor, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives in the roads he built, the memories he created, and the generations who will continue to honor his life.

Plans are being made for a future celebration of Rays life. Details will be shared when available.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ray Albert Gabert, please visit our floral store.