The Lakewood Township Committee offers its sincere condolences to Mayor Ray Coles upon the passing of his father, Raymond John Coles, at the age of 90.
Ray Coles Sr. set the foundation for the exemplary public service careers currently led by Mayor Coles and various of his other offspring. Nearly seven decades ago, Ray Sr. chose a career as a NYPD police officer, even though it barely enabled him to cover his mortgage. With his unique dedication, energy and skill, Ray Sr. quickly rose through the ranks of the NYPD – from patrolman through, eventually, Inspector.
In the late 1980s, a heart condition forced Ray Sr. to abruptly end his policing career, but he still managed to live life to the fullest. Ray Sr. stepped up his incredibly skilled carpentry and train-making work; and would regularly commute to his son’s new hometown of Lakewood and assist in his optometry equipment business. Throughout all his years, Ray Sr. was a highly devoted family man – giving life and soul to his wife Noreen, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Ray Sr. derived immense joy watching Mayor Coles’ career in Lakewood government thrive, helping shepherd Lakewood through historic growth in population and prosperity. Beyond public service, Mayor Coles proudly carries on his father’s legacy in many areas, from devotion to family to train-making.
“I’m grateful for the man he was and for helping me become the man I am,” says Mayor Coles. “Thank you, Dad. I love you.”
“I have such fond memories of Ray Coles Sr., who I first met in 2003, at the first Reorganization meeting I attended after joining the Committee,” says Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller. “He always had a smile; that was his trademark. And that is the impression that will forever remain etched in my memory.”
“I’ll never forget when Ray Sr. handed over to me a blessed object that he received from a Rabbi, which he closely protected and cherished for years,” says Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein. “He was a man of incredible character; and we can clearly see these values continued in Mayor Coles’ illustrious public service career in Lakewood.”
“Ray Sr. was the commanding officer at the 66th Precinct in Brooklyn – where I grew up – and he worked hand in hand with Boro Park community leaders to ensure public safety,” says Committeeman Isaac Akerman. “He was a pleasant man with a huge heart, and only had kind words to say whenever I met him.”
“I did not have the pleasure of knowing Ray Sr. but have no doubt that he was a great man,” says Committeewoman Debbie Fuentes. “I would like offer my condolences to Mayor Coles and his family during this difficult time, and look forward to continue working with him and our fellow Committee members on behalf of the people of Lakewood.”
