W. Raymond Demuth

November 4, 2017

GENEVA – Ray, 89, (affectionately known as RAYDAR), died peacefully on Saturday, November 4, 2017 at home surrounded by close family members after a short illness. At Ray’s request, there will be no calling hours or service. Memorial contributions in his memory, may be made to Colleges of the Seneca at HWS, Athletic Department for the Women's and Men's Soccer Programs 300 Pulteney St., Geneva, NY 14456 or to Ontario Yates Hospice, 756 Pre-Emption Rd., Geneva, NY 14456. Ray was born and grew up in Brentwood (Long Island) New York.  He was the son of W. Raymond and Erna Giebler Demuth Sr. He started college at Cortland Normal (now SUNY Cortland) in 1946.   After a brief stint in the Navy at the end of World War II, he returned to Cortland where he met his wife of 67 years Nan.  Upon graduating in 1951, Ray started his career as a teacher, but was soon recruited to Geneva to start the Soccer program at Hobart College.  He spent his entire career at NWS as a coach and administrator in its sports program. In his later years, Ray was likely HWS’s #1 soccer fan. Ray was a referee for many years referring College Women’s Soccer, High School and College Lacrosse.  He was a member of the Rochester District Lacrosse Association. Ray was an accomplished fisherman and enthusiastic golfer.  He savored his six decades spending summer times at Long Lake in the Adirondacks.  Starting as a counselor in a summer camp for youths, he met a family who owned a place on the lake. Ray and his family visited and helped maintain the cherished place known as “Walker’s on the Rocks". He is survived by his wife, Nan; sons, Bob (Karen) and Mike and his brother, Bob; his grandchildren, Jessica, Julia (Jason) Baird, John (Heather), David, Justin and great grandson, Jordy.  Ray enjoyed a large circle of close friends scattered throughout the US with whom he maintained frequent communication.  He will be sorely missed by all. He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Missy.