By DANIELLE GALVIN
RAY Paynter’s 80 years have been “crazy and easy” according to his kids.
On Sunday, he celebrated his birthday with family and friends at Purvies in Pakenham, joined by a who’s who of original Pakenham residents and former newsagency staff.
His son Brian kicked off the speeches by welcoming the Carrolls and other families who have been synonymous with the town.
Gavan Bourke was welcomed as the “special dignitary of the day” and Stan Young, Robbie McGregor and others were mentioned especially as some particularly familiar faces.
Forty-three years after the family first moved to Pakenham, Purvies was the most logical meeting place for those who remember what the town was like before there was more than one supermarket.
Ray’s sons joked that they had also learned not to take a call from their dad after 6pm and that no topic for discussion was safe.
They paid tribute to their dad for all that he had taught them and his love and adoration particularly for his grandkids.
“What a fantastic commitment you have made to our family,” Brian said.
Eldest brother Michael said it was great to be at the pub for his dad’s birthday to share stories and memories.
He said his dad’s days at the newsagency were the “glory days” and that it taught him how to get on with anybody who walked in the door.
There were lots of laughs as the brothers retold stories of their dad growing up and some of his more amusing statements.
“Would you turn the bloody lights off it’s like Luna Park in here,” Ray used to say.
Brendan was also quick off the mark with funny stories about his dad and had everyone in fits of laugher.
But Ray was just as feisty.
“You are a pack of bastards, but you’re lovable,” he said.
“My mum and dad were very hard working, they were self-starters and I think they handed it down to my kids, all of who are very hard working.”
Ray said his daughter had particularly provided him with “great strength” through the hard times.
Two of his children were interstate but sent their love for their dad’s milestone.
“You are all good friends and I enjoy your company,” he said.
“It’s been a great day and I appreciate you coming.”
