Ray William Decoteau Obituary (2025)

Ray William Decoteau of Toppenish left his earthly confines on Thursday, October 2, 2025, to rejoin his Grandpa William James Decoteau and Grandma Edna Andy Decoteau. He was blindsided by an aggressive cancer. Ray was born November 26, 1972, in Seattle, WA, to Raymond Garcia and Ella Decoteau. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, uncle, coworker, teammate, and friend to all. Early on, he was Grandpa's boy, a Cub Scout, and his sister Terry's sidekick on neighborhood adventures to the pool, Olney Park, and the 49er. When younger brother David arrived, Ray was a big brother like no other. The two were inseparable in attending concerts and their love for collectible toys. When Dehlia entered his life as a sister, he taught her many life lessons, including how to drive. He was the quintessential loving son--ever dependable and supportive, a great listener when needed, and a helping hand always. In high school, he worked next to his sis at Dairy Queen and joined her on the THS cheer team. At THS, Ray was also a powerlifting champion and a member of the 1989 state football champions. Go Wildcats! And with his outgoing nature, the 1991 THS Prom King. Following graduation, Ray joined the United States Coast Guard and proudly served aboard the USCGC Midgett, home-ported in Seattle. In August 1994, Ray met his Princess Sheila. They started a family with their son William on May 20, 1996. With a November 6, 1999 wedding, Ray made Sheila his queen. Son Ray Jr. was born on August 9, 2004, completing their family. Ray was a proud dad and loved his boys immensely. Ray was also a loving and helpful son, brother, and uncle to Sheila's family, especially as a father figure to Cissie & Dale Slockish, and a big brother to Bubsy and Pnut. Leaving no doubt to his eternal love for Sheila, Ray readily renewed his wedding vows in 2019. In 1998, Ray began his lifelong passion, employed by Yakama Nation Fisheries restoring salmon for his tribe, the Yakama. He typically worked at the Roza Dam and Cle Elum hatchery facilities. Ray loved sports. For many years, he played first base or pitcher in various softball leagues. His many lasting friendships became his softball family. A highlight was his trip to Las Vegas for the senior softball tournament. He was a Seattle sports superfan of the Seahawks and Mariners. He attended many home games and traveled to Arizona for football and baseball spring training. Go Hawks! Go Mariners! He and his nephew Garrett often talked sports endlessly. Arizona was a special place for Ray. He loved his many visits to hang out with his brother Sonny Harrison. In December 2017, Ray enjoyed an extended family Caribbean cruise. In February 2024, Ray and his family traveled to Japan with his sister's family. Ray's wonder and excitement on both trips was amazing to see. And did Ray ever love to sing--especially karaoke. While in Japan, 'Blu-Ray' got to sing karaoke where it all began. Ray had the biggest heart, and he touched countless lives with his smile, laugh, humor, and helping hand--or going beyond to be that father, big brother, or uncle you needed. This was best demonstrated in his gifts. Ray combed through eBay, Amazon, and stores until he spotted your gift. And it was no less special knowing that Ray probably found it on discount or clearance! We miss you, son, brother, babe, dad, uncle, coworker, teammate, friend! Please snapshot your memories of Ray for safekeeping and keep his love for all alive. A viewing and service to honor Ray and his life will be held at 9:00 AM, Friday, October 10, 2025, at Shaw & Sons Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Reservation Community Memorial Park. The family kindly requests you wear your finest Seahawks or Mariners gear to outwardly express your love for Ray. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at shawandsons.com.