Raymond Colfax

Ray Colfax of Celilo, Oregon left us peacefully on February 15, 2017. He was born on July 6, 1945 to Fred & Daisy Colfax, Jr. in The Dalles, OR. He was a member of the Yakama Nation. Ray served in the US Army during the Vietnam War with the 9th Infantry. While serving in the Vietnam War he was afflicted with PTSD. He worked with the Yakama Nation Tribal Police and game warden. He served as past Tribal Councilman and was a strong advocate for Legends Casino. Until his death, he worked as a commissioner with Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission under the Yakama Nation Fish Committee. His most important duty was becoming Chief for Celilo and Columbia River. He strongly supported Columbia River fishermen rights and fishing rights. He advocated for more Indian housing with Johnny Jackson and Wilbur Slockish. From childhood years, he fished Celilo Falls and enjoyed the rich history of the fishing village. He continued fishing throughout his life. He was also our basketball star. He played numerous tournaments throughout the Northwest with fellow officers. Ray had a heart for children. Throughout their marriage, Ray and Barbara Jean took in 16 children that needed their love and acceptance. These kids found what they were lacking with Ray, Barbara Jean and Rayette. He is survived by one daughter, Rayette Colfax, grandchildren Ravyn J. Colfax, Raymond Colfax, Reignan C. Colfax and Raaquin A. Colfax. He is also survived by his two sisters Ada Colfax Frank and Yvonne Colfax. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Jean (Richard) Colfax, his father Fred Colfax, Jr., mother, Daisy Colfax and one brother LeRoy Colfax, grandfather Fred Colfax, Sr. and grandmother Sallie Alice Wahchalka George. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Raymond Colfax, please visit our flower store.