Born Wednesday August 29, 1945. Passed away Sunday June 21, 2026.

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Passed away peacefully at home after a short illness, surrounded by his wife, four children and his much-beloved Wally dog.

Dearly loved husband of Liz for 58 years. Cherished father and father-in-law of Nicola, Fenton, Briony, Kate and Andrew. Adored Buppa to Marli and Charlie.

Ray was a much-loved member of the Lorne community, cherished by his many friends both near and far. He was well known to locals and visitors alike, often seen walking with his faithful Old English Sheepdog, Wally. His friendly nature, warm conversations, and familiar presence brought joy to many and made him a memorable part of community life.

Tributes

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1. Dear Liz & family

   We were shocked to have heard of Ray’ passing.

   Our sincere condolences to you all.

   Lorne will not be the same without seeing Ray and his beloved Wally walking the streets and having a coffee.
   They were part of the landscape of Lorne.

   His service was a fitting tribute to a life well lived.

   May he rest in peace

   Love Ken & Chick Hosking.

   Chick & Ken Hosking

   June 30, 2026 7:51 am

2. Thanks Ray for being you.You were a good man.
   You were a great friend , and shared many conversations particularly when we were neighbors.
   We are sorry we not able to attend the celebration of your life. A life well lived as a person you always had a project on the go, using the many skills you acquired.
   You will be greatly missed.

   Marlene and Brendan Schmidt

   Brendan Schmidt

   June 29, 2026 10:01 am

3. Thank you Ray.
   You were always the strong, reliable, kind, friendly, chatty, compassionate friend every person needs.
   You will be sadly missed.
   Our heartfelt condolences to you Liz, and your lovely family, and of course Wally, Ray’s loyal and loving dog. XX
   Vanda and Russell Curtis.

   Vanda Curtis

   June 26, 2026 6:57 pm

4. So sad for your loss Liz and family.Wally will also miss him terribly.
   Grateful for the visits when you were up this way and his great kindness and connection with John and my boys.
   June PTS 153 1968-1771

   June GOLIN

   June 26, 2026 5:36 pm

5. Ray (Knackers) Neilson, you will forever be remembered as a wonderful and talented mate. We shared so many great moments over sixty years. We both got Married at Emu Bottom and it was a pleasure to have you as my Groomsman. We always admired your comprehensive skill set that amongst other things created the wonderful Lemonade Creek Cottages with darling Lizzie. Just wish Wally could talk. The connection between Ray and Wally was very special. We were already planning future holidays together.
   Knackers , you will be missed. Rod and Wendy Roscholler.

   Rodney Roscholler

   June 26, 2026 8:53 am

6. Dear Liz and all the family, I was so very sad to learn of Rays passing I will so miss chats to both him and Wally Kind thought for you all Marg Riordan

   Marg Riordan

   June 24, 2026 11:51 am

7. Dear Liz and Family,
   My sincere sympathy on the passing of Ray.
   I really enjoyed my chats with Ray and Wally he will be missed by you all but also the wider community of Lorne.
   Sending you much love and am sorry I am not able to be with you to farewell Ray.
   Jenni Miller

   Jennifer Miller

   June 24, 2026 12:21 am

8. Oh Ray! How we will miss you. You were such a kind and wonderful man. We are all ripped off by your quick departure from our community. I will keep an eye on your darling Liz. And your beloved dog.
   Travel safe mate. Sue Grant and Locco xxx

   Sue Grant

   June 23, 2026 8:38 pm

9. What a shock to know dear Ray has passed on :-(
   My very deepest condolences to Liz and Rays family.
   Ray was a very special man and an absolute joy to meet on the street in Birregurra and often at Otway Artisan having a coffee and a chat to the locals.
   Ray you will be greatly missed by all who knew you.
   R.I.P my friend 💙
   John Garner
   “April Hill”
   Warncoort

   John Garner

   June 23, 2026 8:30 pm