Ray A. Vaness, a cherished resident of Rittman, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on November 26, 2024, at the age of 92.  Born on April 14, 1932, in Beallsville, Ohio, Ray was the beloved son of George and Mae Vaness. He married Ethel R. on November 15, 1952, in Cameron, OH. Ethel died on August 18, 2011.

Ray dedicated 41 years of his life to a fulfilling career at Morton Salt where he was a machinist, from which he retired with pride in 1993.  A devout member of the Rittman Christian Church, Ray was known for his unwavering faith and commitment to his community.

He was an antique collector and enjoyed going to car shows, where he would show his 55 Chevy.

He was a devoted family man, blessed with four children:  Bonnie Baker of Camden, Ohio, Ronnie Vaness of Wooster, Ohio, Christina Miller (Steven) of Kidron, Ohio, and Randy Vaness (Liz) of Valley City, Ohio.  Ray's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Ricky Baker (Robin), Holly Walters (Zach), Leann Baker, Angela Miller, Andrew Miller (Andrea), Jennifer Reidinger, Jeremiah Vaness, Jennifer Peterson (Mark), and Edward Peterson (Kendra); as well as his 11 great-grandchildren, who brought great joy to his life.

Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ethel Rosella; his son-in-law, Rick Baker; daughter-in-law, Kim Vaness; and two grandsons, David Baker and Jeffrey Baker.   Despite these profound losses, Ray's spirit remained resilient, finding solace in the simple pleasures of yard work and the company of family, friends, and neighbors, especially Lois McCann.  Ray is also survived by his brother, Ralph, of Rittman; sister, Sylvia of Monroe County, Ohio; and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Ray A. Vaness will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the love he shared with those around him.  His memory will forever be cherished by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Friends may call on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Auble-Gillman Funeral Home, 360 W. Sunset Dr., Rittman, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Services will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, at Auble-Gillman Funeral Home, with Pastor Ermal Allen officiating. Burial will take place at the Sherwood Memorial Gardens in Wooster.

Memorials may be made to Rittman Christian Church 50 N. Main St., Rittman, OH 44270.