Tribute to Ray Carmines

A man who is surrounded by so many loved ones during his lifetime is a rich man, indeed. And, such a man is Mr. Ray Carmines. Mr. Carmines will have his 85th birthday on April 26; while, today he celebrated with family and friends at the local Ice-Plex. My family and I count ourselves privileged and blessed to be included in such a wonderful event in his life. It was beautiful to see Mr. Carmines radiate such joy and seeing it reflecting back to him. Look at his dazzling smile!

Mr. Carmines with my parents.

The celebration was perfect. Mr. Carmines was surrounded with about a hundred or more friends and family, all of whom were gathered to celebrate his life and enjoy his presence. Mr. Carmines exudes such a beautiful and positive attitude. He has been a part of my family’s life since I was about ten years old when we first moved a couple of houses down from him in our neighborhood in Poquoson. He has always been a very loving and generous man.

Mr. Carmines has always been active in the community, a loving father and husband to his four daughters and wife, a great friend and neighbor and a man of God. He is one of a few I have known in my life to truly live his life in the spirit of Jesus Christ with a generous and loving heart. He has never has had a negative word to say about anyone. I do not even recall ever seeing him unhappy. He is one who chooses to fully live his life in joy. Not only does Mr. Carmines snow ski whenever he gets a chance, but he is also champion ice skater/dancer, which is the one of the reasons why we celebrated his birthday and life at the Ice-Plex.

 

The Ice-Plex was the perfect place to accommodate everyone. Many attendants ice-skated including the “man of the hour”. It was such a delight to see everyone relaxed and having a great time. There was plenty of wonderful food, drink and birthday cake.  

One of my favorite parts of today’s celebration was playing BINGO using words that celebrated Mr. Carmines’ life such as: Virginia Tech (his alma mater), ice skating, snow skiing, maroon and orange (school colors), football, and so many other delightful words that represent a part of Mr. Carmines’ life.  In the spirit of love and generosity, everyone had the opportunity to win at least once (many won twice or more); furthermore, prizes were available, wonderful tokens that helped to mark the occasion.

With or without prizes, we ALL felt like WINNERS! The positive energy, warmth and love that filled the ice complex could have melted the ice. I hope these words convey at least a fraction of joyousness that was experienced today. Mr. Carmines is a magnificent person, a loving soul and a gift to the world. May he have 85 more magnificent years.