Charles E. Ray

Charles Emmett “Charlie” Ray, 64, departed this life on Sunday March 8, 2020. He was born on March 23, 1955 in Hannibal, Missouri to Charles Eldon and Etta Jane (Miller) Ray. After graduation from Macon High School in 1973 he attended Central Missouri State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Geography/Geology. He soon took a job in St. Louis for the state highway department. After a few years in that position, he moved to Evanston, WY to work in the oil fields. In Evanston, he met Geri Wilks whom he married October 20, 1984. The family then moved to St. Louis where he was employed by Fred Weber Construction. Charlie was promoted to Vice-President of the materials division and was in charge of quarry operations and blasting, as well as sand and gravel plants in several locations around St. Louis. Charlie and Geri moved to Plattsburg, MO where Charlie was in charge of a small quarry operation. Charlie also purchased a small shop in Sunrise Beach where he enjoyed collecting and restoring classic and antique cars. He and Geri enjoyed their involvement in the local old car club, showing their cars at various events in the Lake of the Ozarks area. They also enjoyed traveling in their motor home across the Western United States to visit family. They later moved to Enterprise, Oregon where Charlie became involved in the local car club, Rusty Nuts, and served as a judge for local car shows. He is survived by his wife Geri; daughters, Lory (Jeremiah) Larrigan and Cory (Darrell) Francis; seven grandchildren, Dustin, Collin, Jacob, Alyx, Alyssa, Ayla, and Bridger. Two sisters, Brenda Russell and Sandra Moentmann; and one brother Travis Ray. He also leaves behind several other friends and family members who will all truly miss him.