January 2, 1936 - April 8, 2025
In loving memory ~
Ray Konyha, a devoted family man, skilled mechanic, and lifelong Abbotsford resident, passed away peacefully at the age of 89.
Born at Cottage Hospital in Abbotsford in 1936, Ray had a natural love for cars and machinery from a young age. He bought his first vehicle—a 1954 Chevy—in 1955, beginning a lifelong relationship with automobiles that would shape both his career and his identity. Though he owned nearly every make of car over the years (except a Dodge!), he didn't treat himself to a brand-new vehicle until retirement in 2004, when he finally bought a shiny new Chevy pickup.
After studying mechanics at vocational school in Nanaimo, Ray worked throughout B.C. in towns like Merritt, Quesnel, and Boston Bar, and even ventured to Manitoba to help build a major hydroelectric project. His heart, though, always brought him back to Abbotsford.
In 1963, Ray bought the Pine Grove Garage and turned it into "Ray's Esso," a community hub that served locals for 40 years. It was more than just a place to get your car fixed—it was a gathering spot where neighbors shared coffee, stories, and laughs. Many young men got their start working for Ray, learning about cars, work ethic, and life. He quietly mentored a generation with patience and kindness.
Ray has two children, Mark (Scotch Creek) and Linda (California), and four grandchildren—Tyson, Erik, Sydney, and Gabe—who brought him great joy. In his later years, he shared his life with his loving partner, Linda, whose large and welcoming family became his own 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
After retiring, Ray embraced travel with the same quiet enthusiasm he brought to everything in life. He visited China, cruised the Baltics, explored Hungary—his father's homeland—and had unforgettable adventures in Africa, including witnessing the tail end of the wildebeest migration in Botswana. He loved seeing the world, but his roots stayed firmly in Abbotsford, the place he proudly called home for most of his 89 years.
Fridays were reserved for coffee with old school friends—solving the world's problems, talking cars, and reminiscing about days gone by. Those moments were simple but meaningful, just like Ray himself.
Ray is survived by his partner Linda, his children Mark and Linda, his grandchildren, and his dear sister Julia (Frank), with whom he shared a special Saturday morning tradition. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, stepchildren, and friends who will miss him deeply. He was predeceased by his parents, Rafael and Suzanna, sister Helen, uncle Gabriel, and his first wife, Signa.
Ray will be remembered as a kind, hardworking man with a steady presence and generous heart. A quiet pillar in his community, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.
An Inurnment service will be held on Saturday, May 3 at 11:30 a.m. at Hazelwood Cemetery, with a Celebration of Ray's Life to follow at 1:30 p.m. at Matsqui Community Hall, 33676 Saint Olaf Avenue, Abbotsford.
Those wishing to make a donation in his memory are invited to do so to the Skilled Trades BC Foundation, which helps young people pursue careers in trades like automotive mechanics.
Clarity Cremation, Funeral and Ceremony
604.401.6219
Service Details
1:30 PM