Raymond E. DeHaven; Contractor, 38-Year Area Resident, ‘Gourdfather’

Friends called him the “gourdfather,” a nickname he earned through his ability to transform large varieties of the squash-like vegetables into Native American-inspired artwork.

But most knew Raymond E. DeHaven as a friendly general engineering contractor known for his decorative concrete and stonework on patios, sidewalks and stairways across Ventura County during the past 20 years.

DeHaven, a 38-year county resident and 23-year resident of Camarillo, died Sunday. He was 61.

He is survived by Gail, his wife of 40 years; daughters Julie DeHaven of Los Angeles and Wendy “Pat” Himenes of Fremont; son Russell DeHaven of New York City; mother Marcia DeHaven and sister Carolyn Akers, both of Falls Church, Va. He also is survived by two grandsons.

“He was a true family man,” his wife said.

DeHaven’s family came first, she said, but his artwork captured his imagination.

He was captivated by the spirituality and creativity he found in Native American history and used that inspiration to turn ordinary gourds into fascinating art, according to Gail DeHaven.

“It was the designs, the feathers, the history, everything. It was his outlet,” she said. “After a day on the job, that’s what he would do.”

Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday at Camarillo United Methodist Church. A private burial will follow.

Memorial donations may be made to the Arthritis Foundation or National Museum of the American Indian.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Brothers Griffin Mortuary, Camarillo.