Raymond Schamber

Raymond K. Schamber, 79, Aberdeen resident and former little league/Babe Ruth Coach and Baltimore Colts running back, died suddenly Sunday, May 18, 2014 in Shelton, WA. Ray was born on April 18, 1935 to Rheinhold and Freda (Winckler) Schamber in Scotland, South Dakota. He grew up in Tyndall, SD and after the passing of his parents at an early age, he was raised by Joe and Martha Winckler. He went to college at the University of South Dakota where he ran track and field and played football as a running back for the Coyotes from 1954-58. He was drafted by the Baltimore Colts football team the following year and played tailback. In 1989, Ray was inducted into the University of South Dakota hall of fame. Ray married Norma Jane Blaha and they moved to Grays Harbor in the 60's. Norma died on January 14, 1982 in Olympia, WA. Ray married Janette Grace Brown on August 25, 1984 in Aberdeen. She currently resides in Shelton, WA. Ray worked for Harbor Saw & Supply for over 20 years and off and on when needed following his retirement. He was a member of the Aberdeen Eagles Aerie 204. He was an avid bowler. He also coached little league and Babe Ruth Baseball in the 70's and 80's. Ray is survived by his wife of 29 years, Janette Schamber of Shelton; children: Denise and husband Archie Larson of Forks, Brad Schamber of Hoquiam, Barb Schamber of Aberdeen, Ron and wife Jodi Krocker of Marysville and Doug and wife Cherie Krocker of Sequim; sister Metha Hess of Menno, SD; grandchildren: Crystal Schamber of Aberdeen, Donald & wife Kristi Schamber of Ocean Shores, Marissa Schamber of Olympia, Vann Schamber of Aberdeen, Sara Clark of Pullman, Karie Krocker of Sequim and Lance Schmidt of Rochester. There will be a celebration of his life on Thursday, May 29, 2014 at 1:00 PM at the United Christian Church in Aberdeen. A message of condolence or of a memory can be left for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen.