Charles F. Ray

Charles Forrest Ray of Southgate, Michigan passed away on November 14, 2024, he was 87 years old. “Chuck” was born on December 11, 1936, in Highland Park, Michigan. He was a devoted & loving partner of more than thirty years to Celeste Lezuch and a loving father to Forrest (Lisa) Ray, Laura Christen, Derrick Ray and Darrell (Janice) Ray. He is survived by five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren and his beloved sister Etta Murphy. He is also survived by many dear friends.

He was never one to follow the pack. He owned several small businesses throughout his lifetime and although challenging, he preferred the life of being self-employed. He worked hard to provide for his family and being self-employed represented the leader he was throughout his life.

His love of nature led him to enjoy time up north on the “sunrise side” of Michigan, fishing on Lake Huron and the Au Sable River, which had a special place in his heart. He enjoyed summers up north at his lake house for many years.

Always health conscious and active, pickleball was a big part of his life. In later years he spent winters in Florida, where he enjoyed several sessions of pickleball a day & riding his bike throughout Ft. Myers Beach. He was active until a few months before his passing. As a Parkinson’s Disease patient, he knew the importance of staying active to fight off the side effects of the disease that would eventually take his life.

He was a loving and generous man with a great sense of humor. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.