W. Ray Wolf
Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute
W. Ray Wolf, 72, passed away at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri on the morning of Saturday, January 29, 2022. It doesn’t seem right to say that Ray lost his battle with cancer because it is hard to imagine someone fighting against it harder than he did.
Ray grew up in Mission, Kansas, the only son of two Kansas City police officers. He was a self-taught artist who followed his own vision, helped found the Westport Art Festival in Kansas City, and made his living by working as the Art Director for Kansas City Power and Light and as a designer for Hallmark, Inc. He also worked at Raton Arts and Humanities in Raton, New Mexico and the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center in Pueblo, Colorado. He had just as much passion, however, for his second job at Home Depot/Lowes where he helped people find the right paint color for their house or a weekend shed project. He really didn’t know any strangers.
He is survived by his wife, Shan; daughters Shannon Wolf and Stacey Crump, son Craig Williams; stepdaughter Sasha Lawson, stepson Seth Congdon; grandsons Cody Wolf, Nick Wetzsteon; granddaughters Katie Wetzsteon, Izzy Williams, Adria Lawson, Mariella Lawson, Aislin Congdon, Brighe Congdon. They will all miss him more than words can say.
So will Naughty Nancy, a 1931 Ford Model A Coupe he restored in Pueblo, Colorado, and Big Nose Kate, a 1947 Ford Sedan he adopted in Jefferson City, Missouri. In the last years of his life, he spent his weekends showing them both off, winning a few awards in the process, and—in typical fashion—making even more friends who will miss him.
I was heartbroken to hear the loss of the man that raised me as one of his own. I will always remember the things that he’s given me from his knowledge of art and cars. He helped me learn how to drive a car as well as coached me in my little league baseball teams. I would not be the man I am today without him. He will be missed so much.
I will miss Ray, he was my friend the first time we met online about hot rods and many other life items. Ray loved life, his whole family, his wife and all his children. Ray also enjoyed his two hot rods, always coming up with sharp looking designs to make his vintage rides always look good. Ray will be missed by many but especially by his wife Shan.
Rest in Peace Ray Wolf.
Your friend always,
Richard from Nevada
Randy and I had only known Ray for a little over 4 years but from day one he seamed like we had been friends forever. He was very proud of Naughty Nancy and we loved to hear him talk about her. Sending our condolences to Shan!
Sorry to hear this news. I worked with Ray for many years at Kansas City Power & Light. Ray was a talented artist and great fun. I enjoyed spending time with him and sharing many laughs. Condolences to all of his family and friends.
The news of Ray’s passing is such a shock. I worked with Ray early in my career at KCP&L. To say he was talented is an understatement. Art, cars, building displays at work, he could do it all. I wish I had just a sliver of his talent. He was a lot of fun, too. Coffee breaks, lunches and after work gumball rallies were always enjoyable with Ray. Sympathies to all his family and friends.
I am shocked ! I found out today on his passing; I always enjoyed his company ; he was a very talented guy and fun to be around.
My condolences to Shan and to Ray’s family and May he be long remembered .
Again I’m at a loss for words!
Andy Holman
Pueblo, Colorado