Walter Ray Cashen, Sr.

Walter Ray Cashen, Sr, 88, left his earthly family on Friday, July 26, 2024. Ray was born on February 13, 1936 in Owensboro, KY to Rose Head Cashen and Richard Marvin “Bally” Cashen, the fourth of seven children. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by beloved daughter, Carol Cashen and much loved grandson, Nicholas Cashen. Also, predeceasing him were siblings, Wanda Payne, Violet Kunau, Richard “Dick” Cashen, and Ann Wilson Bantly. 

Most of all, Ray was extremely proud of his family. His is survived by his wife, Juanita Blakeman Cashen, who cared for him. Also, surviving are his children, Walter Cashen, Jr (Debbie), Johnson Cashen, Virginia “Gini” Howson (Rod). Grandchildren are Andrew Jessee, Clint Cashen (Tory), Alex Atkins, Kendall DeBevoise, Ethan DeBevoise, Jake Howson, Ben Howson (Megan) and Cal Howson. Great-grandchildren are Raelyn, Blakely, Hunter Cashen and Eli Jessee. Stepchildren, Kenneth Humphress (Carrie), Marla Bumble. His two surviving siblings are Larry Cashen (Susan Turner) and Wayne Cashen (Martha). Survivors also include a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Ray graduated from Owensboro Catholic High School in 1954 and joined the Marines on July 4th of that year. After 2 years of duty he was discharged on July 4, 1956. After his military service, he used his GI Bill to obtain a degree as a Mechanical Engineer from the University of Kentucky in 1961. 

Peabody Coal Company in Greenville, KY was his first engineering position. In 1965, he became an employee of the Engineering Department of the Naval Ordnance Station in Louisville, where he finished his career, retiring in 1994. His proudest professional accomplishment was his contribution to the invention of the MK19 Grenade Launcher. He held a joint patent for this internationally used weapon. The Kentucky Military History Museum in Frankfort houses the prototypes, pictures and mementos of his work. 

Ray was a man of character and integrity. He was straightforward, opinionated and loved to tell a good story. Ray loved kids and nothing pleased him more than someone bringing a child out to fish in his pond. He was generous to others, especially in giving to children’s charities. Ray was an expert marksman in trap and pigeon shooting, setting several records with his skills. He was an avid fan of the University of Kentucky sports. 

In lieu of flowers, Ray would have preferred that you give towards two of his favorite charities: St. Jude Childrens’ Hospital or Ronald McDonald House. Contributions may also be made to Hosparus of Louisville. 

Visitation will be on Thursday, August 1, 2024 from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions East Chapel (235 Juneau Drive Louisville, KY 40243). 

Visitation will also be on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 9:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 am at Newcomer Funeral Home with burial to follow at 2:30 pm at Lebanon National Cemetery (20 State Hwy 208, Lebanon, KY 40033). 

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