Ray Buchanan

Ray Buchanan was born the youngest of ten children on December 31, 1921 in Centerfield, UT to Raphial and Margarette Buchanan. On Thursday January 17th at the age of 91, Ray passed away surrounded by those who dearly loved him. Inducted into the Army in January 1943 during WWII, he was stationed at the Casper Airbase where he met his future wife Louise. Ray was stationed in Guam for 24 months as a Staff Sergeant of the 21st Bombardment Squadron receiving numerous decorations and citations including the Good Conduct Medal and the Asiatic Victory Medal. Following an honorable discharge in February 1946 he married Louise Sobotka of Sheridan, WY on March 19, 1946 in Monarch, WY. Ray and Louise made Casper their home where he was employed by Standard Oil for 35 years. He was President of Amoco Credit Union and the Amoco Social and Athletic Club. In 1982 Ray retired as Supervisor of the Mechanical Division. Upon retirement Ray and Louise enjoyed traveling and made their home in California for two years before returning to Casper. They traveled for many years together over the Rocky Mountain area delivering cars for local car dealerships. Following 53 years of marriage Louise passed away in 1999. Ray continued his active lifestyle being involved with the Casper Senior Center serving on the board of directors for two years. Also a member of the Meadowlarks and an established vocalist, Ray was widely sought after singing at many events ranging from his granddaughter's wedding to performing the National Anthem at many local events such as the Casper Rockies, CNFR, and Cavalry games to name a few. During this period he met Mary Randall of Douglas WY. Mary and Ray dearly treasured the companionship of each other often being seen dancing and enjoying life at many of the Senior Center events. Ray received the Director Emeritus Award at the Casper Senior Center in November of 2012. Ray was preceded in death by his wife Louise, 9 siblings and his companion Mary. He is survived by his daughters Becky Whitlock and Anita (Ron) White, granddaughters Lindsey (Ryan) Allison, Allyson (Adam) Brust, grandson John and granddaughter Michelle and great grandchildren Bryleigh and Wyatt Brust, and Ava Allison. A good leader and passionate human being, Ray (Buck) Buchanan will be deeply missed by family and friends. Services will be held at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, January 23rd at Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery. Public viewing will be at Bustards Funeral home Tuesday January 22nd between 12PM and 8PM. In lieu of flowers Family request all donations be made to Casper Senior Center.

Service

Wednesday, January 23, 2013 1:00pm

Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery

Curtis Street

Evansville, Wyoming 82636

Visitation

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 12:00pm - 8:00pm

Bustard's Funeral Directors and Crematory

600 C.Y. Avenue

Casper, WY 82601