Ray Kenneth Gilmore of Harriston passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in his 78th year. Husband of Sandra (Wenzel) Gilmore for 56 years. Father of Scott and Michele Gilmore of Harriston, Tracey Gilmore and James Grubb of Kitchener, and Angela Gilmore and Norm Beauvais of Sudbury. Grandfather of Shelby Bennett and Steve Walker, Michayla Gilmore, Emmaline Gilmore and Bryce Leask, Avery Beauvais, and Nathan Beauvais, and great-grandfather of Sophia Walker. Brother of Margaret Anne Gilmore of Listowel, Shirley and Ron Matthews of Atwood, and Fay Gilmore of Mitchell. Survived also by his mother-in-law Margaret Wenzel of Palmerston, brother-in-law Leroy Wenzel of Palmerston, sister-in-law Marilyn Petrie of Morden, MB, and by 13 nieces and nephews. Ray was predeceased by his parents Ivan and Marguerite (Hills) Gilmore, brother Glen Gilmore, father-in-law Olin Wenzel, and his brothers-in-law Harvey Machan and Wayne Petrie. Ray, with his father Ivan started Gilmore Farm Supply in 1966, a Massey Ferguson dealership in the current location of the Harriston Legion, moving to the new shop south of Harriston in 1974. He brought the Wil-Rich brand to Ontario in 1973 and became a Versatile Dealer in 1978. He became president of ORFEDA (Ontario Retail Farm Equipment Dealers) in 1988, having served as a director from 1983. Ray was also a founding member of the Farm Fleet buying group. In the community, he was active in the Kinsmen Club serving as president in 1971/1972, then serving on the District 1 Executive in 1979/1980 before becoming a Life Member in 1988. In the 1960’s, he raced the ‘Car 54’ stock car at Teviotdale Race Track. Visitation was held at the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston on Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00pm where the funeral service was held on Monday, January 20, 2025 at 1:00pm. Reception followed at the Harriston Legion. Interment in Harriston Cemetery. Memorial donations to Palmerston & District Hospital MRI would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.hardyleefuneralhome.com
