Ray Alexander Luna, a proud veteran, accomplished welder and devoted family man, passed away, leaving a legacy of strength, laughter and unyielding love for family, friends and animals. He lived life to the fullest and was a true fighter until the very end.

Born in Larned Kansas to Louis G. Luna and Ruth N. Mendoza, Ray possessed a rare warmth that allowed him to make friends with anyone he crossed paths with. He deeply honored his friendships, treating companions like family.

An exceptional pool player, many found themselves on the other side of defeat when challenging, or being challenged by this shark from the pool hall depths. An avid fisherman, Ray found peace by the water. He was also a profound lover of animals, often speaking to them with a gentle understanding, as if he could truly converse with them. Not even spiders, insects and other crawlers were exempt from his compassion. He was a tough, traveling man with a heart of GOLD.

Ray also answered a higher call to service, proudly serving as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. A marksman of the highest caliber, he achieved the rank of Expert Level Rifleman. His devotion to this time remained a cornerstone of who he was, with his calls of “OoRah!” and “Semper Fi!” during times of company with family or friends, you would be familiar with this aspect of him. These calls should forever reflect in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. Along with his military salutes, Ray was also known for his signature, easygoing catchphrases: “Go ahead!’, “Easy”, “buddy buddy” and “homie!”

Ray was preceded in death by cherished grandparents, Pedro A. Mendoza and Maria (Ortiz) Mendoza; Beloved parents, Louis G. Luna and Ruth N. Luna (Mendoza); Dedicated Servicemen and Uncles, Andres Clemente Mendoza (Army, served in Okinawa); Jose Isabel Mendoza (USMC, served in Korea); Brothers, Luis M. Luna (Mexico) and John L. Luna (Larned); Beloved son, Michael Ray Luna (mother, Stella); And of course, his lifelong companion, Carol Ann Rodriquez (who made her transition on 08/09/2024).

He is survived by his Aunt Lucille Alvizo (Mendoza-Delgado); His siblings, Susan Nevins; Joe (Olivia) Luna; Valerie (Reyes) Aguilar; Edward L. Luna; Pedro T. Luna (Carol L. Kiker); Rebecca (Miguel) Caro; Kathy Nunez; Angie (Ernest) Roman; Lawrence G. Luna (Jenifer); Richard (Elaine) Luna; Stephanie (Mike) Allala; He leaves behind a beautiful legacy through his beloved children Ramon Andrew Luna; Enrique Louis Luna; his several adored grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life, from Alicia Garcia (whom he referred to as Songbird) and Bianca Castor (Bumble Bee). Ray is also survived by a sprawling, loving family of countless cousins, nieces, nephews as well as family-like friends, who will miss his vibrant spirit deeply.

Rest easy, Marine.

“Semper Fidelis”