Enrique Marcelo Rayas

Enrique M. Rayas a dedicated father, veteran, and an inspiration to many, passed away on Friday, November 10, 2006. He lived a grand and “colorful life”, with his family and countless friends. At the age of 17, he served in the Navy during World War II and was stationed in the Hawaiin Islands. An accomplished saxophone player, he returned and graduated from Cathedral High School in 1947 and soon after, married Teresa Gonzalez with whom he shared an abundant and overflowing family life for 56 years. With an unrelenting commitment and work ethic, he raised 18 children and extended his passionate belief in Catholic education by sending all of them to St. Patrick’s School, Loretto Academy and Cathedral High School. A strong family man, he was genial and good-natured with his 50 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. His dedication as a provider and father is immeasurable, yet evident in the many he inspired and touched, his spirit will live in all of those who had the opportunity to know him. He shared his strong Catholic faith as a lifelong catechist and as a role model in his daily life. He used his gifts and talents in many ministries throughout his life some of which include; serving as lector at various churches, as an integral member of ongoing ministries at Sacred Heart and St. Ignatius, as a catechist for 35 years at Sacred Heart, St. Ignatius and St. Patrick’s and cofounder and treasurer of the Tepeyac Federal Credit Union for over 40 years. He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife Teresa, his siblings, Rodolfo, Carmen, and Jesus, his 18 Children, 3 Sons-in-law, 11 Daughters-in-law, 50 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Sunday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home-Carolina. Vigil Service will be Sunday at 7 p.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Funeral Mass will be Monday at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-East . Please visit online register book @ www.sunsetfuneralhomes.com.