Raymond I. Bivens, 77, a lifelong resident of the town of Colchester, passed away on Wednesday afternoon, January 9, 2013, at home surrounded by his family.

Ray was born on May 28, 1935 the son of the late Walter Bivens and Frances Luscomb Gregory.

Ray proudly served his country in the U. S. Army from 1958 to 1960. On December 8, 1961 he married the former Betty Conklin at the St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Downsville. He was employed by the Town of Colchester Highway Department as a Heavy Equipment Operator for 32 years, retiring in 1990. In his spare time he enjoyed being in his woodshop doing all kinds of woodwork, and hunting, and fishing.

Ray is survived by his loving family, his wife, Betty, his children, Ray (Jeannine) Bivens of Downsville; Robert (Careena Banks) Bivens of Calicoon; Kim (Larry) Bifaro of Walton; his grandchildren, Rebecca, Jennifer, Anthony, and Joseph, his brother, Doug and Edna Bivens of Montgomery; his special friend, Joyce Yanson, and his faithful companion, Rascal, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Walter Bivens, Jr.

Friends and family are invited to call on Friday, January 11, 2013 at the Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11AM, Saturday, January 12, 2013 at St. Mary's Church, 15121 Main St., Downsville with the Rev. Michael Shank, officiating.

Memorial Contributions in Raymond's memory may be made to Downsville Fire Department and EMS, P. O. Box AC, Downsville, New York 13755.