LOUDONVILLE – Charles "Ray" Cornell, 79, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, surrounded by his loving family.
Ray was born in Albany and was the son of the late Perry and Ann Gioscia Cornell. He proudly served in the US Navy from 1948 through 1952. Ray enjoyed a thirty eight year career with Borden Dairy where he retired as the General Manager in 1990. Along with several friends, Ray was instrumental in the establishment of the Colonie Senior Babe Ruth League in 1970. He was an avid golfer, a sports enthusiast and a dedicated fan of the New York Giants and Yankees.
Ray is the beloved husband of 60 years to Lorraine A. Cornell. He is the dedicated father of Karen (Michael) Mezz, Ray Cornell and Michael Cornell. Ray is the brother of Perry (Nancy) Cornell and Ruth Ann Batcher and the brother in law of Shirley (Howard) Klopfer and Edward Mackey. He is the cherished grandfather of Jaime (Josh) Peck, Chris (Nikki) Cornell, Michael (Theresa) Mezz, Cori (Jason) Bilka and Jason (Tracy) Cornell. He is also survived by 8 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Ray's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Erin and Jennifer, the wonderful nurses who provided kind and compassionate care.
Funeral services will be Tuesday morning at 9:15 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie then to Christ Our Light Catholic Church, Loudonville at 10:00 where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Monday from 4 to 8 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery. At the request of the family, contributions in memory of Ray Cornell may be made to Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Rd. Albany, NY 12205.