Obituary of Ernest PETCH

Ernest Raymond Petch of Calgary, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on February 1st, 2014, after a brief illness at the age of 80 years. Ray was born in Regina July 18, 1933, grew up in Brandon and Victoria before settling in Calgary. Ray had many passions, but his one true love was music. Ray spent most of his years as a professional Jazz pianist in Calgary and while doing so also began his musical administration career, serving as the President and Secretary Treasurer of the Calgary Musicians Association before moving to Toronto to serve as the Vice-President from Canada of the American Federation of Musicians. In 1997, Ray retired from his music administration career, moving back to Calgary with his wife Dorothy, and resumed writing music and playing piano in two local Big Bands until he retired from playing this past December. Ray was much loved and will be greatly missed by his family: sons and daughter-in-law, John, Randy (Darlene) in Victoria; daughters and sons-in-law, Lynda in Calgary, Valerie (Dave) in Langley and Jacquie (Dean) in White Rock, as well as step –daughters Kim (Gord) in Calgary and Darlene (Steve) in Vernon; 17 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Ray was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Dorothy in 2008. As per Ray’s request the family has planned a Celebration of Life on February 8, 2014 at 1:00 PM at the Delta Bow Valley (Ballroom) at 209 – 4th Avenue SE, Calgary. Please forward condolences through www.hffs.com. The family wishes to thank the Doctors and Nurses for his medical care at both Foothills Hospital and Sarcee Care West Hospice. It was Ray’s request that in lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Stan Brown Benevolent Fund, c/o Calgary Musicians Association, #5 – 606 Meredith Rd NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 5A8.##5#5 – 606 Meredith Rd NE Calgary AB T2E 5A8#5 – 606 Meredith Rd NE