The Life of Ray

_{May 10, 2023}
In honor of Older Americans Month, Tamarack Ridge wanted to celebrate by acknowledging one of our residents and their achievements. Our older Americans are the ones who have helped build the world we live in today. They have been through challenges and triumphs, and have done things we could never imagine. Taking the time to care for and speak with them is a true privilege.

We sat down with Ray S., a 90-year-old Veteran who was born and raised in Lorain, Ohio. While speaking with Ray, he told us about his life experiences. Ray was the youngest child with six older siblings. He grew up on a 150-acre farm where he and his siblings helped with chores. Ray enjoys talking about his dog, Jackie, whom his father got him as a child, and how he would ride his bike with a wagon on the back that held milk.


^{Ray's High School Photo}

Ray went to East High School, where he was on the varsity football team, varsity basketball team, track team and Student Council on world affairs. When talking about his time in high school, he smiled and laughed about the things he and his teammates would get into after their games.

At the young age of 19, Ray was drafted and fought in the Korean War. When Ray returned home he had many odd jobs; until one day, he started working at Chase Brass. During this time, he worked as a Metal Roller making big money, amounting to $400 a week.



Talking with Ray about his life really opened our eyes. Times have drastically changed, and he has helped shape this world and our reality today. Hearing his stories and seeing how much it made him smile meant so much to us.

Thank you, Ray, for your selfless and dedicated service to our country and for allowing us to be a part of your life!