Raymond Metzel Obituary

Captain Cook - Raymond Earl Metzel Sr, 89, passed away suddenly on March 1st at his home in Captain Cook, Hawaii. The love of his life, his wife, Ruth Naomi precedes him in death by 22 years. They lived in Hawaii because it was always her dream to live there one day. He stayed because her spirit was still there. They were loving parents to Ray Jr (Barbara) and Vicki Lee (Jeffrey). Saddened by the loss of their grandpa are Candace Keating (Casey) and Jennifer Metzel. The family grew in size to include great grandchildren, Alyson, Brad, Ryan, Aidan, and great-great grandchild Michael. Joseph Godfrey family, Ron Lee, David Lee and Amy Lee Eisold (Wesley) and great grandson Rainer feel the loss as well. We also give special mention to Jim and Suzy Mendenhall, his neighbors, his friends. They looked out for him & included him in special occasion activities whenever possible.

Both Ray and Ruth were union members. He was a teamster, working for Consolidated Freightways. She was one of a handful of lady steelworkers at Conalco Aluminum plant. Their life's work served them well. They worked hard, paid their debts and were both able to retire in their early 50's. How many people can say that.

They made lifelong friends easily. They loved music (as evidenced by the 15 turntables we found in their home). Johnny Mathis was high on the list. They were also avid ballroom dance enthusiasts. Additionally, they were big Indy fans. In their early lives, the race was attended in person every year. They came from a long line of farmers in York County, Pa. At their Hawaii home, Dad grew traditional Hawaiian plants, including a nice variety of fruit trees & pineapples. He often shared his organically grown produce with neighbors and friends.

They did move around a bit before settling in Hawaii. We used to tease them that they ran away from home. After leaving Bath, Ohio, they bought a 100 acre farm in southern Ohio. They raised cattle, rabbits, and trout. Then there was a beautiful home on the gulf coast in Florida. Visitors were always welcome. They really enjoyed playing tour guide. In Florida, you were guaranteed a visit to the underwater mermaid theatre in Weeki-Wachee Springs. In Hawaii there was always a trip to Volcano National Park and the many beautiful beaches, a favorite being Black Sand Beach near their home. Any place with a beach was a draw for them and Hawaii's striking beauty was a big plus.

A life, two lives, well lived, we will always remember your smile, your love, and your warm embrace.

Together again, Ray and Ruth. Tears.