Charles Ray Miklaucic, 79, of Bishop, CA, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2023, surrounded by family.
Ray was born in Whittier, CA on September 20, 1944 to parents Charles Ray and Nellie Miklaucic. He was the oldest of 4 boys. He spent his early years in Norwalk and Downey, CA. He graduated from Warren High School in 1962. Following graduation, he lived for 6 months in Bishop, CA, next to his Grandpa Frosty and Grandma Leta. He liked Bishop so much he planned to move there one day.
In 1965, Ray married Linda Tucker. They relocated to Bishop in 1971, where he resided for the rest of his life. Though this relationship wasn’t permanent, they had 2 children together, Michelle and Melissa. He married Martha Wedeking in 1986, expanding his family to include Martha’s grown children, Mark and Kristen. Following Martha’s death in 2006, he shared the rest of his life with significant other, Linda Arnold (d. 2023).
Ray leaves behind a legacy of public service, which was a prominent theme throughout his life. He joined the Bishop Police Department in 1973 and retired after 26 years as Lieutenant. He served in the Army Reserves. Ray will be remembered for his passion in helping people, active in the Lion’s Club, Soup Kitchen, Camp Joy, church, missions trips, and generous contributions to many charities.
He enjoyed vehicles throughout his life including: cars, motorboat, motorcycles, airplanes (earning his pilot’s license), RVs and off-road vehicles. He valued his relationships and time with family and friends.
Born again, Ray accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He stated, “Faith is a gift from God and I’m fortunate to have accepted that gift.” Ray was excited to share Jesus with others. His favorite scripture was Psalms 100:4: Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
Ray is survived by his children, Mark (Shannon) Wedeking, Kristen (Kevin) Brown, Michelle (Doug) Hutchison and Melissa (Scott) Ringo; his brother Michael; 9 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Tobey.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his second wife, Martha; his significant other, Linda Arnold; his brothers Kenney and Bradley.
A graveside service will be held at East Line Street Cemetery on December 2, 2023 at 10:00 am, followed by a reception at First United Methodist Church, 205 N Fowler St, Bishop, CA 93514. All are welcome. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Hospice of the Owens Valley. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of the Owens Valley.
