Ray Vanhoucke

Vanhoucke, Raymond Cyriel of Springfield passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026. He was 87 years old. Beloved husband of 60 years to Margaret(Howe) Vanhoucke. Much loved father of Mary Margaret Prior(Johnny) and cherished papa of Stirling Prior. Brother of Maurice(late Jackie), Godelieve Poppe(late Fred) and Monique Wood(Malcom). Brother-in-law of Donna Vanhoucke, Marie Geerts, Paul Howe(Alice), Elizabeth Howe(Gerard Payeur), Heather Bergman(Albert), John Howe, Jim Howe(Marianne) and Tom Howe(Donna). He will be missed by a number of nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his brothers Cyril, Roger(Anne), Andre and Gerard(Liliane)

Born in Bredene, Belgium on February 17, 1939, son of the late Eduard and Leonie(Titeca) Vanhoucke. Ray’s family came to Canada aboard the Waterman in 1955, and five years later, Ray proudly became a Canadian citizen. He remained proud of his Belgian heritage while equally proud to call Canada home.

Ray was a determined and capable man who could fix almost anything. He loved tinkering with parts and welcomed the challenge of taking something that was broken and making it work again. A skilled handyman, he helped build decks and their family home, and he was also a farmer. Whether working with his hands, tending to the farm, or cooking at the BBQ, Ray was always happiest when he was busy. He even taught Mary Margaret how to bake. He also had a keen eye for photography and enjoyed capturing the people and places that were important to him.

Ray was an inspiration to Margaret, and together they made a wonderful team, complementing and balancing one another throughout their life together. They shared a love of travel and camping and enjoyed many memorable trips in their Boler.

Ray was a founding member of the South Dorchester Optimist Club and was proud to be a lifetime member. Community and fellowship were important to him, as was sharing a good laugh.

Ray lived with determination, curiosity and a good sense of humour. Whatever he set his mind to, he worked hard to accomplish, leaving behind many memories to be cherished.

Visitation will be held at the H.A. Kebbel Funeral Home, Aylmer on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 from 6-8:00 p.m. A private funeral service will be held. Cremation-burial, Aylmer Cemetery. Donations to Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners or the East Elgin Community Assistance Program(EECAP- Corner Cupboard) would be appreciated. Share memories or condolences at kebbelfuneralhome.com