Ray really didn't want a career as an actor and soon returned to the cattle he loved. He found another love as well. He was married in 1950, and with a wife to support, became a certified cattle auctioneer. With some friends he formed the Pine Tree Cattle Company, a business that leased ranches where cattlemen could graze their herds.

During the following decades, Ray had a kaleidoscopic career: he owned a hotel, an orange grove and apartments. He became an auctioneer in San Luis Obispo, and in 1990 moved to Wyoming. He became the top Honda salesman there, then moved again, to Leisure World in Orange County.

Then, in 2003 Ray developed shingles, which spread to his eyes. He discovered that he had become legally blind!

But Ray was not easily deterred from living a full life. He discovered Braille Institute's Orange County Center, where he learned to make the most of his residual vision. He is currently studying creative writing and computers.

"I can't say enough about Braille Institute," Ray said. "You learn how to maximize your skills and keep your spirits high. I'm in awe of the place." He compares the independence he has achieved here with the independent spirit of the West that has always sustained him.

At age 82, Ray isn't letting anything slow him down. He looks back on a full, wonderful life and is especially proud of his six children and six grandchildren. "I always wanted to be a cowboy," he said. He got his wish—and a whole lot more!

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