Michel Raymond "Ray" Sayegh

Michel Raymond ‘Ray’ Sayegh, passed away peacefully at the distinguished age of 94 in the arms of his family, and sent on his way with loving words and songs of peace on April 6th, 2025 in Bellingham, Washington. A devoted husband, caring father, and respected hard worker, Ray will be remembered for his easy-going and gentle ways, calming wisdom, helpfulness, unwavering generosity, and dedication to his loved ones.

Ray was born on July 27, 1930 in Brooklyn, New York to Germaine (Gege) and Michel (Pappy) Sayegh. At the age of five, Ray told his parents he wanted to grow up to be a chenanic (mechanic). He was always most satisfied tinkering, particularly with motorized bicycles in his teenage years. He graduated from Brooklyn Automotive Trade School and began working for Esso. This was interrupted by the draft in 1950 which sent him overseas to repair military vessels. He was stationed in France, which would allow him to visit his aunt, uncle and cousins by motorcycle. Years later, Ray would entertain his daughter with medals (from high school sports and the Boy Scouts) and tell stories of how he earned them in such renowned Korean War conflicts as The Battle of the Folies Bergère. ; )

When Ray returned home in 1952, he was rehired at Esso as a truck mechanic and began dating Doris Chinn. They were married in 1956 and had two children, Donald and Claudine. Ray spent much of his time working to provide comfort and financial stability for his family. However, in between his full-time job at Esso and his auto repair business, "Local Garage," he found time to strap on a pair of skates to play with the kids on the street, take Doris or his children for motorcycle trips, surf casting at Jones Beach, and much more. And there was always something to tinker with in his basement workshop: doll houses, furniture, models for class projects, lead-cast toy soldiers, and more.

In addition to Brooklyn, Ray and Doris lived and vacationed at their homes in Tanglewood Lakes, PA, Toms River, NJ, and Ocala, FL. While always proud of his Brooklyn roots, Ray built Raytirement Ranch with Doris and thoroughly enjoyed the house in the woods hosting friends and family over the years. Later, he found paradise in the Riverwoods Community of Estero, FL.

Ray retired from Esso/Exxon after 37 years, a little grease-stained but still boasting a full set of fingers and toes. Ten years later, he retired from his car repair business. During this time he found a lot of joy playing golf, furniture making, wood carving, photography, traveling, and painting. He gifted wood furniture and decorative pieces to many.

Organizing family gatherings and social events was Doris’ domain, but Ray was always a supportive, steady presence – camera in hand and handy with a practical joke or wise-crack. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke it was often with common sense, generosity and humor. His laughter, especially watching or listening to comedies was contagious. And it should be mentioned, animals were a great love to him – and they seemed to sense it. Dogs in particular.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Richard "Dick" and Jacques "Jack".

Ray is survived by his wife of 68 years, Doris Marie Chinn, his son Don (wife Sue; grandson Jamie), and daughter Claudine (husband Gary; grandson Jack). He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Ray was a quiet but powerful force of goodness. He desired to keep moving on with life, but life ever after had other plans for him. He will be missed greatly. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know and love him.

A Memorial Service via Zoom to honor Ray’s life will be held on May 6th, 6:30 pm Eastern Time. You can view the service via this link - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82134916368?pwd=6IasmT6DkNgS5rzy38ILm1H4UGfZan.1
Meeting ID: 821 3491 6368
Passcode: 407239

If you’d like to make a donation in his name, please consider donating to Whatcom Hospice.