We are saddened to announce the passing of Raymond E. Farmer, Jr., MD, this past November. Born February 3, 1949, to Olivia S. (Herceg) Farmer and Raymond E. Farmer, Sr., Ray grew up in Stockton. He attended Lincoln Elementary, Palo Alto Military Academy, and St. Mary’s High School. After graduating high school, he enrolled in University of the Pacific where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and went on to work in local area retail pharmacies for several years. Ray then pursued his dream of becoming a doctor. He received his M.D. from the medical school at University of Nevada, Reno, interned at San Joaquin General Hospital, and completed his residency in Anesthesiology at University of Southern California. Ray started his medical practice in the Central Coast and Central Valley of California, but ultimately returned to his home in Stockton, spending the majority of his career at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Ray loved the thrill of outdoor adventures. Everything from surfing at sites all along the California coast to snow skiing in Tahoe. He couldn’t resist the excitement of fast cars and motorcycles, yet he also enjoyed the peacefulness of scuba diving and hiking with his three beloved Rottweiler dogs. Ray was always ready and willing to try the next challenge, often forgetting that some activities should probably not be tried after a certain age. Despite his frequent banter about moving to other exotic locations, we always knew he would not stray too far from his life-long home, cherished friends, and loving family in the Northern San Joaquin Valley.
Ray was generous, spontaneous, and curious. He had a sharp sense of humor and the natural ability to spin a good story. He valued education, loved learning about potential new hobbies, and was always on top of current events and the stock market. He will be forever in the thoughts and hearts of his family and friends who miss him dearly