|
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
BOOTLAND, Raymond Stanley - 89, of Halifax, passed peacefully at Veterans Memorial, Camp Hill on April 9, 2025.
Born in Calgary, Alberta, he was a son of the late Eva (Emery) and Leslie Bootland.
Ray attended Western Canada High school and had an illustrious career in the Royal Canadian Navy that spanned 34 years retiring as Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class. He joined the Navy in 1954 as a Sonarman and in 1956 he re-mustered to the PTI Trade. He was among nine Royal Canadian sailors to serve on the Royal Yacht Britannia for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip crossing the Atlantic, when the St. Lawrence Seaway was officially opened on June 26, 1959. Ray also served on the HMCS Beacon Hill, New Glasgow, Margaree and Fraser. He also served at Madden, Alder Grove, Cornwallis, RMC and RRMC. Ray's field of expertise was physical fitness. As a boxer, in 1957, he won the title of Light Heavyweight Champion on HMCS Magnificent. While in the Navy, Ray was very active in aquatics, basketball, volleyball, hockey, badminton and squash. He taught swimming at all levels and was a national swimming examiner and instructor. He also coached university basketball at the Royal Military College in Kingston.
Stationed in Shilo, Manitoba, Ray acted as Liaison Officer Tank Regiment with the German Army who were in training. After retirement from RRMC in 1988, he worked two years with the reserves as an instructor, teaching officer cadets. Ray and Marg (pre-deceased) as empty nesters for eighteen years, migrated as snowbirds to Mesa Arizona for six months each October. When not traveling, they kicked their heels up and stayed young by enjoying western line dancing. Ray was a Lifetime member of The Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 134) and received the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) Citation. Since the Malahat Legion opened in 1934, Ray is the fourth member to receive this award.
Ray moved back to Halifax in 2019 to spend time with his sons Larry (Darren), Leon and grandchildren Emily, Ben, Finn, Lola and Avery. He lived at Melville Heights and made many close friends during his time there. (The Halifax Chronicle Herald 15 Apr 2025)
Ships served in: HMY BRITANNIA RMC KINGSTON
|
