Ray R. Ketchum

Ray R. Ketchum, 77, passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at The Center at Tucson in Tucson, Arizona. He was born on February 26, 1947, to Ray Ketchum and Lillian Losada in Cleveland, Ohio.

Ray graduated from Upland High School in 1965 and soon enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as an aircraft mechanic. After his military service, he pursued his passion for mechanics through his business, Ray’s Rod Shop. A lifelong racing enthusiast, Ray raced his own ’55 Chevy at Fontana Raceway and worked as a starter there. His love for motorsports extended to following NASCAR races, tracking driver statistics, and collecting memorabilia. Later in life, Ray became the proud co-owner of the Unicorn Sports Lounge in Tucson alongside his wife, Sandy. Together, they operated the business with several family members and built lasting friendships with their patrons. In his later years, Ray cherished time spent with family and friends and adored his beloved dog, Trixie.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Carol; son, Darryle; stepdaughter, Roberta; eleven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sandy; brothers, Pat and Lee; and stepchildren, Larry and Joanne.

A celebration of Ray’s life will take place on Saturday, March 1, from noon until 4:00 p.m. at his home. For more information or to RSVP for the celebration, please email Carol at LucaracL@gmail.com. 

Ray’s memory will live on through the lives he touched and the passions he pursued. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering his remarkable life.