Above: A good and decent man who responded conscientiously to needs and opportunities as they arose, Gov. Robert Ray died Sunday at 89.
Reflecting Monday on the death of former Gov. Robert Ray, several of us at dsm noted that we had different political perspectives but readily agreed on three admirable qualities that Ray exemplified:
- Gracious civility. A partisan politician in an era that permitted bipartisanship, Ray sought the counsel of political rivals and welcomed opportunities to overcome differences.
- Natural leadership. Ray had a graceful way of embracing diverse opinions and finding consensus in politics, business and social environments.
- Compassionate humanitarian. We believe Robert Ray acted in keeping with his conscience and his sense of moral rectitude over expediency or political advantage.
Gov. Ray had many other admirable qualities, of course. But these three endeared him to people without regard to politics. They are enough to secure his special standing in the hearts of Iowans, a standing that will endure as long as his memory lives among us and his record lives in state history.
And so we mourn an honorable man. We recall that he was among the first people entered in the rolls of our Sages Over 70 recognition, honoring the best among us. We recommend this tribute, published in 2011. A detailed bio can be found here.
