Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Raymond James Martin, passed away Sunday, May 15, 2016, at home with his family. Ray was known by many names including Jim and the loving nickname Wimpy that was given to him by his father. He was born on March 12, 1949, in Saginaw, Michigan to Burt and Jessie (Gunn) Martin. He married the love of his life, Darlene (Ferris), on March 16, 1968, in Beaverton, MI. They were blessed with two sons, Raymond and Brian.
Ray was an avid hunter and fisherman. He felt most at peace while being out on the lake duck hunting or when sitting quietly in his blind waiting for that big buck to cross his path. Ray and Darlene enjoyed watching the wildlife linger and walk across their backyard.
Along with hunting and fishing, Ray loved riding his motorcycle. Riding his Harley with his buddies was something he looked forward to every week. He especially enjoyed when his son would ride along with him.
Ray worked as a carpenter for 32 years before retiring from JR Heineman and Son in 2001. Prior to retiring, Ray enlisted the help of his sons in building his dream home for him and Darlene. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 558, American Legion Riders 558 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3292.
Ray is survived by his wife, Darlene, sons Raymond (Nancy) and Brian (Gretchen), grandchildren Nicole, Seth, Peyton and Devin, sisters Joann Thiodeau (Roger) from Gardner, MA, Darlene Smith (Larry) from Morriston, FL, Bonnie Beers (Bill) from Ocala, FL, Connie Walters from Ocala, FL, Roy (Karen) from Gladwin, MI, Linda (Gary) Gurk from Lansing, MI, Dee (Fred) Dunbar from Midland, MI, and Carol Walters from Coleman, MI. Ray is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents, his brother, Johnny Roy Martin and nephew Cecil Bucky Smith.
Funeral Services will be conducted by Pastor Brad Withrow on Thursday, May 19, 2016, 11:00 A.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, Michigan. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 from 1-5:00 P.M. He will be laid to rest at Beaverton City Cemetery, Beaverton, Michigan. Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers are asked to consider the American Legion. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com
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