Raymond "Ray" W. Bertschy

Raymond W. Bertschy, known as Ray, departed this world on March 31, 2025, in Dayton, Ohio, bringing to a close a life vividly painted with passion, generosity, and unwavering courage. Born on November 18, 1948, Dayton, OH.

Ray was an alumnus of Fairmont West High School, graduating in 1966, and furthered his education at Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado, where he earned an Associate's degree in Gunsmithing. This path not only honed his skills but also ignited his lifelong passion for firearms, leading him to operate a gun store complemented by a shooting range on Kettering Blvd. in Kettering, Ohio. Ray’s love for precision and performance extended beyond guns; he was equally enamored with cars and was known for his spirited participation in drag racing at Kil Kare Speedway. A proud member of the automotive community, Ray also lent his talents to White Allen Chevrolet on North Main Street.

Central to Ray's life was his devotion to service, exemplified during his time in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served honorably with pride during a tour in Vietnam. This chapter of his life shaped him, instilling values of resilience and camaraderie that would flourish in his friendships and family bonds.

Ray’s warmth and expansive heart earned him the endearing nickname of "$3 Ray." This playful moniker was a testament to his generous spirit; when out with his motorcycle club brothers, where the custom was to tip $1.00, Ray would always counter with a $3.00 tip, demonstrating his desire to spread joy in the simplest of gestures. He even went so far as to customize his Harley license plate to read $3Ray, a light-hearted nod to his giving nature and zest for life.

A lover of freedom, Ray cherished the open road, often found riding his Harley Davidson—whether solo or accompanied by his club brothers. These moments, filled with the roar of engines and the wind in his hair, brought him profound joy. His adventures, filled with laughter and camaraderie, will be fondly remembered by those who shared the road with him.

As vibrant as his life was, it bore its share of heartache. The recent loss of his beloved dog, Danni, left an immeasurable void in Ray's heart—a reminder of the deep love and companionship that colored his life. In his passing, he is met by the warm embrace of his departed parents, Raymond P. and Elizabeth W. Bertschy, whose memories linger lovingly in the hearts of those who remain.

In this world, Ray leaves behind his beloved sister, Ann Bertschy, who carries forward the stories, laughter, and the indelible imprint of their shared history. While Ray may have departed from this earthly realm, the echoes of his generosity, adventurous spirit, and the countless lives he touched will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we celebrate Raymond W. Bertschy—a life fully lived, a spirit unbound, and a friend cherished beyond measure. May he ride on in peace, embraced by the love he gave so freely.