Ray Sharp

After a short illness, we regret to announce that Raymond Sharp passed away on June 30, 2024 at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 84 years. 

He leaves to mourn his wife Gail Sharp (nee Meseyton) of Portage la Prairie, son Michael (Heather) Sharp of Portage la Prairie, grandchildren Ryan Sharp and Genna (Keith) and 7 great grandchildren; sister Joan Pongoski of Portage la Prairie; sister-in-law Shirley Grant; brother-in-law Danny (Marissa) Meseyton, brother-in-law Ed (Crystal) Meseyton along with many nieces nephews and friends. 

Ray was predeceased by his son Kelly; parents William and Isabel Sharp; siblings Norman Sharp, Shirley Fust, Billy Sharp, Alex Sharp and Kenny Sharp; sister-in-law Doreen Verwey and many extended family members. 

Ray was born in Portage la Prairie, MB on June 4, 1940. He lived and attended school in the Southport/Gainsborough area. As a young man, Ray worked and helped on the family farm. He started his career in construction and later worked at the Campbell Soup factory for approximately 12 years where he was manager of shipping and receiving. 

He married the love of his life, Gail Meseyton. They were blessed with two sons, Michael and Kelly. Ray and Gail recently celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary this past May. 

In 1973 Ray started his own business; Sharp Construction Ltd. He worked tirelessly building the business into a very successful company. Ray retired in 2008 at which time his son, Michael took over the company. 

Ray and Gail loved to travel. They spent many happy times in Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta and Hawaii. When Ray retired, they bought a new truck and camper and headed to Alaska on a two-month adventure. After that they travelled to the East Coast spending another month sightseeing. In 2008, they built their new home. Ray kept busy and active outdoors planting his garden and working in the yard. He enjoyed all the wildlife, deer and the wild turkeys were just a few that would often roam their yard. He would go for many walks around the neighborhood with his little companions, Misty and Maggie. 

Ray would often go for a drive around the countryside. He met and befriended many people throughout his life. He enjoyed meeting the “guys” for coffee at McDonald’s until his recent illness. 

The family would life to thank Dr. Proctor and the Medical staff at the Portage District General Hospital for their care during his short stay.

Forever in our hearts

We will miss you!

Memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at the Herman Prior Activities Center at 1:00pm. Private family burial will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery. 

Donations in memory of Ray may be made to Central Plains Cancer Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave E. Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 0K8.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021.