Raymond Eugene Melnick

Raymond E. Melnick, 71, of Minersville,  passed away on April 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Known lovingly as Ray, “Santa Ray,” Jaws, and Dodo, he was a man whose larger-than-life personality and unforgettable spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Born on December 30, 1954, in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, he was the beloved son of the late John and Anna (Sema) Melnick. Ray was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather—his grandchildren truly being the light of his life.

A 1972 graduate of Minersville High School, Ray was a retired member of the Goodwill Fire Company and a former member of the Westwood Bowler League. He was also an active member of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Minersville and took great pride in his Ukrainian heritage.

Ray will always be remembered for his deep love for his family. As a devoted father, he never missed his daughters’ activities—even while working swing shifts. He was always there, always supportive, and always present.

His love was constant, strong, and unwavering, making those around him feel protected and deeply cherished. He truly lived for the Christmas season. For 50 years, his iconic “Ho, Ho, Ho” could be heard from miles away, bringing joy, laughter, and magic to children and adults alike. Being “Santa Ray” wasn’t just a role he played during the holidays—it was a reflection of the generosity and kindness he shared all year long. Ray enjoyed watching trains, fishing, and making his regular trips to “the office”—his beloved Dunkin’ Donuts.

He also took great joy in playfully aggravating his grandchildren and was a dedicated sports fan, especially of the Seattle Seahawks and the New York Mets. Whether it was game day excitement or simply talking about his teams, these moments brought him happiness—especially when shared with family. And in true Ray fashion, his family can’t help but believe the Seahawks won the Super Bowl this past year just for him—one last victory for their biggest fan, and we’re sure he’s still celebrating it his way.

He was known for his warmth, humor, and his remarkable ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. His presence filled every room, and his absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled.

Ray began his career at Wear-Ever Penn , followed by Cadillac Cable, and later worked at Honeywell, where he retired as a machine operator in 2008.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna; his brother, John Melnick Jr.; his grand puppy, Bentley; and many beloved aunts, uncles, family members, and friends—no doubt welcoming him with a joyful reunion.

He is survived by his loving wife, Anna Marie (Ritsko) Melnick, who also served as his devoted caregiver following his diagnosis; his brother, Edward G. Melnick of Minersville; his daughters, Melissa Ann Melnick (significant other, Nathan Hauser) of Jonestown, and Kimberly Marie Gracely (wife of Shawn) of Port Carbon; and his cherished grandchildren, Gunner “Onuk” Lee Gracely and Isabelle “Izzy” or “Vnuchka” Whitney Hauser. He is also survived by many beloved cousins.

In some of Ray’s final days, he expressed that he did not want us to cry, but to be happy for him. In honor of his love for coffee and Dunkin’, we smile through our tears and remember him with a message that feels just like him: “Donut cry for me. This is not the end. We will meet again.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 15, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville, and again Thursday morning from 7:00 to 9:30 AM at the funeral home. A Requiem Divine Liturgy will be celebrated Thursday, April 16, at 10:00 AM at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, with Reverend Mark Fesniak officiating.

Interment will follow at the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray’s memory to Project Purple – A World Without Pancreatic Cancer or to St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church.

Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.

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