Ray Gene Martin, 81, of Weidman, Michigan passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, May 14th at 8:42 am.
He was born on November 29th, 1944 in Waynesboro, TN to the late Benjamin and Tamsy Lou (Brewer) Martin.
Ray was known as an avid outdoorsman who never met a stranger. There is little he enjoyed more than riding his Gator, playing cards, telling a good joke, and above all else - spending time with family and friends.
As the youngest of six, he grew up with his nieces and nephews to whom he serves as the beloved Uncle Ray. He approached this and every role in life with fun and a little mischief when he could, teaching some the art of snipe hunting and others the consequence of gambling in card games. Whether he was the spirited uncle or serious confidant, he took pride in being playful and supportive.
Through one of his nieces, Ray met and married Rose (Culpepper) and went on to have two daughters, Anita (Dysinger) and Lisa. He approached fatherhood with this hallmark, fun-loving attitude where he doted on his girls while still enjoying a practical joke or two. Ray spent most of his career in excavating where he owned and operated heavy equipment; this led him to work alongside his youngest nephew, Charlie, who Ray cherished as the son he never had.
The last chapter of Ray’s life was spent with his partner of 26 years, Karen Vanderkooy which ultimately led him north to Weidman, Michigan. Here he could be found riding his Gator greeting friends throughout the neighborhood, enjoying Karen’s home-made meals, meeting buddies for camaraderie at his garage, and spending every moment possible with the family and friends he loved so dearly.
In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by all five of his siblings: Margie (Wade), William, Sarah (LeGrand), Mary (Daniels) and Charles. Ray was survived by his long-time partner, Karen VanderKooy, Daughters: Anita (Ken Dysinger) and Lisa Martin, grand children: Colleen, Chelsea and Matthew Berry. Ray is also survived by 6 great grandchildren, 10 nieces and nephews, as well as extended family in Waynesboro, TN.
A Celebration of Life event for Ray is being planned; Memorial event details will be sent once updated.
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