Raymond J. Pifferini passed away in his sleep, peacefully in his home on February 5, 2021. Ray was born on March 6, 1920, to his loving parents Joseph & Katie Pifferini, in Oakdale, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Katie Pifferini. Ray is survived by; Daughter Trudy Kennedy, Niece, Cindy, Grandchildren; Kirk, Chris, Glen, and Kathy. Great Grandchildren; Zoey, Kayla, Kyle, Kason, Taylor, Teagan, Ashley & Noah, and Great, Great Grandchildren Kennedi & Eli.
Ray Lived in Modesto most of his life until he enlisted into the Army of the United States on January 18, 1941, he served over 5 years, with most of his time deployed outside of the Continental U.S. Corporal Ray Pifferini was one of the last of our 240,000 World War II Veterans. He served honorably and received many decorations and commendations, such as the World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and an American Campaign Medal.
One of the most cherished moments of Ray’s life was when he met Betty, the love of his life in 1946, after a yearlong romance they were married in 1947. The young couple enjoyed building a life together, their children, their home, and everything in between. Life was not always easy though, Ellen E. Pifferini, lovingly known as Betty, passed away suddenly in 1973 and he has always missed her.
Ray was a Foreman for the City of Modesto running tree crews, he was in charge of maintaining the trees of Modesto and he did a great job for 35 years taking care of our beautiful tree city. If you mentioned trees to Ray, you were in for a 90-minute lecture on the proper care and pruning of our trees. Needless to say, he has not happy with the mistletoe!
Ray was proud to be a centenarian and would happily share his age, with many. His family and friends celebrated His 100th birthday and his good long life at a rustic saloon in Temecula popularly known as The Gambling Cowboy, they all celebrated Rays amazing long life with stories, food and the night ended with an endearing and heartfelt song, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” by Louis Armstrong.
We will honor Ray’s long life and his service to our country, Graveside Services will be held on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 1:00 PM at Acacia Memorial Park, 801 Scenic Avenue Modesto CA
Raymond Pifferini born on March 6, 2020 passed away on February 5, 2021.
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