Kozak, Raymond

On December 1, 2021, Mr. Raymond “Ray” Kozak of Vilna passed away at the age of 74 years. He was born on April 23, 1947 in Lamont, to Andrew & Pearl Kozak, and was the 3rd of 4 children. He is survived by his 4 children, Sheri (Yvon) Belland of Morinville, Elden of Hamlin, Cindy (Barry) Cherniwchan of Bellis & Dean (Dawn) of Bellis; 8 grandkids, Celina Cherniwchan, Kaila (TJ) Nelson, Mackenzie Cherniwchan, Sabrina (Josh) Belland, Jami (Josh) Belland, Cassidy Kozak, Cody Kozak & Caleigh Kozak; 1 great-granddaughter, Charlotte;  brother, Nick (Donna) of Alliance; sister-in-law, Carol Kozak of Edmonton. He was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Diane on December 10, 2020; parents, Andrew & Pearl; brother, Marvin; sister, Elsie (John) Semeniuk. 
Ray wore many hats throughout his life. He was a truck driver, cattle buyer, school bus driver & logger as his side jobs, but he was always a farmer. Ray & Diane were married in 1970, lived in Hilliard & Edmonton before settling in Hamlin in 1974, where they raised their 4 kids. Ray, an avid horseman, was a 4-H leader and hosted gymkhanas & cattle penning at the Raeanna Ranch. His great talent was playing ball & curling in cowboy boots. In later years, Ray was an avid card player with neighbors and was a great partner, but not as great of an opponent. He recently said his greatest achievements were his family and when looking at his grand kids he said he had accomplished everything he ever wanted. 
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Hendrik Lourens and all the acute care nursing staff at the George McDougall Health Centre in Smoky Lake. 
A Private Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Gardens Funeral Chapel, St. Paul, with Reverend Stephen Sparks officiating. Cremation has taken place, with inurnment to be held in Quiet Nook Cemetery, Hamlin.  If desired, donations may be made to Haying in the 30's (Cancer Support Society) c/o 5626- 51 Street, St. Paul, AB   T0A 3A1.  To send condolences online, please visit www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com.