‘Champion in the kitchen’ Ray was an excellent chef

TRIBUTES were made this week for former chef Raymond Stritch, who passed away on February 9, reports Maurice Garvey.

Downeys Pub, Ballyfermot, posted a tribute on Facebook which said: “Sadly we had to say goodbye to this champion in the kitchen. Ray was not only a great customer but managed to make his way into the kitchen in Downeys and became a member of staff. RIP Ray.”

Hundreds of friends and colleagues of Ray expressed their sadness at the news, recalling an “absolute gentleman who always had time for a chat”.

Former work colleagues fondly recalled their time with Ray.

Joe Fitzgerald, Spar Decies Road, said: “Shocked to hear of Ray’s death. We worked together in the Seventh Lock. An absolute gentleman and a fantastic chef.”

Noel Keane said Ray was a “lovely man” and an “excellent chef – got great grub off him in the Killeen House (Seventh Lock)”, while others recalled Ray’s time working in Tim Young’s Ballyfermot.

A message on RIP.ie said: “Raymond Stritch, Ballyfermot, and formerly of Blessington Street. Passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Pre-deceased by his loving wife Anne and adored daughter Selina.

“Very sadly missed by his loving family. Beloved husband of the late Anne and loving dad to Annemarie, Raymond and Ian, grandchildren, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.”

A funeral service took  place on Saturday, February 11, at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Ballyfermot, followed by a burial in Palmerstown Cemetery.