August 31, 1946 – May 21, 2025

Allen Ray Cassel, age 78, a longtime resident of the Colville, WA area, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2025. Ray was born on August 31, 1946, in Spokane, WA, to James Virgil and Virginia Caroline (Ludlow) Cassel.

Ray grew up in Spokane and graduated from Lewis & Clark High School with the class of 1965. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1968. After returning home, Ray moved to Seattle for work, where he met the love of his life, Nancy Wappl. They were married on October 18, 1969, in Spokane.

Ray and Nancy began their married life in Lincoln, WA, before moving to the Colville area and eventually settling in the Onion Creek community, where they raised their children. Ray began a long and respected career in construction as a residential contractor.

For the past 25 years, Ray and Nancy spent their winters in Hawaii, returning to the Colville area each spring. Ray was truly at peace by the ocean, walking the beaches, watching the waves, and soaking in the sun brought him deep joy. Hawaii became a second home where he felt most relaxed and content.

Ray was a man of many talents and interests. He enjoyed his retirement by taking on projects that blended craftsmanship with creativity, including building ukuleles alongside his brother, Gary. He had a love for the outdoors and was happiest surrounded by nature whether golfing a quick 9 holes or an all-day 18, camping, or simply completing projects around his home.

He cherished time spent playing games with family and friends, card games, board games, or outdoor lawn games, always laughing and savoring each moment. Ray's patience and humor made him a favorite companion at the table or on the course.

Deeply involved in his community, Ray served for 30 years as a 4-H horse club leader. Though he rarely rode, he built fences, hauled trailers, cheered at shows, and offered steady support at countless fairs and clinics. His commitment and gentle encouragement touched many young lives.

Ray was devoted to his family, always ready to lend a hand or share advice. He loved and cared for Nancy, their children, and grandchildren with unwavering kindness. His quiet strength, gentle smile, and generous spirit will be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Virginia Cassel. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Cassel of Colville, WA; daughter, Dani Arnold (Shawn) of Onion Creek, WA; son, Jeremy Cassel (Erin) of Spokane, WA; granddaughters, Kylee Arnold, Malia Cassel, and Maya Cassel; his brother, Gary Cassel (Patricia) of Hawaii; and a wide circle of extended family and cherished friends.

No services are scheduled at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. To share memories or sign the guestbook, please visit the online memorial at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com