Obituary of Ray Stortini

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of a truly great man who was widely loved and respected. The Honourable Ray Stortini passed comfortably and with dignity at precisely 12 noon on Sunday, December 1, 2024, leaving behind countless people to mourn his loss and admire his considerable legacy. 

Predeceased by his wife Mary-Kay (nee Sweet), his parents Luigi and Assunta (nee Paglialunga) Stortini, his son Mark Stortini, brothers John Stortini (late Stella) and Leonard Stortini (late Gloria), and sister Mary Paciocco (late John).

Ray leaves behind sons Michael Stortini (Lori), Anthony Stortini and Dan Stortini. Proud Grampa of Ben Stortini (Sharon), Christine Stortini (Mo), Ray Amedeo Stortini, Hannah, Liza and Eric Stortini, Spencer, Jillian, Colin, Savannah, Payton and Kendal Coulson. Great grampa of Louna and Stelo Stortini.

He will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews including Gary Stortini (Susan), Dennis Stortini, Glen Stortini, late Elaine Cleminson (Scott), Carla Buffone (Lou), Brenda Paciocco (Tony) and JP Paciocco (Cathy). Ray always enjoyed his relationship with Mary-Kay’s children, Doug Coulson (Chantel) and Cathy Coulson (Glenn). He treasured his numerous life-long friendships, particularly with Betty-Lou Caputo, Lena Luciani (late Bert) and Evelyn Tenhagen (Mike).

During his life, the Honourable Ray Stortini made numerous and considerable contributions with his time, expertise and resources. He had a significant impact on the legal field, served on many boards of directors, generously supported countless charitable organizations, and spearheaded several community-based endevours in both Sault Ste. Marie and on St. Joseph Island. He has been recognized and honoured for his efforts federally, provincially and locally. 

Guided by the principle of leaving the woodpile higher than when he found it, Ray certainly succeeded in providing enough wood to sustain a warm and long-lasting fire for all of us to draw strength and inspiration from. 

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass to be held at Precious Blood Cathedral on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 12:00 noon with Father Jeff Shannon officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Sault Ste. Marie Soup Kitchen or the Ken Brown Recovery Home would be gratefully appreciated.