Ralph "Waldo" Ray, Jr.

Ralph “Waldo” Ray, Jr., age 82, of Belding, passed away at Mission Point of Belding nursing home on Monday, July 5, 2021, following a brief stay there. He was born on February 23, 1939, in Lake Odessa, Michigan to Ralph Waldo and Catherine Marie (Eldridge) Ray, both preceded him in death. He had one brother, Roger Ray, who also preceded him in death.

Waldo’s family settled in Belding, where he attended Belding Area Schools. In high school he had four successful seasons of football. Throughout his life he was complimented for his skills on the gridiron. He graduated with the Class of 1958.

Waldo served his country in the United States Navy from 1958 until 1962. When he returned to Belding he worked for Bricker Lumber for 20 plus years and then as a truck driver for a refrigerated cartage company based in Grand Rapids. He was a member of the Greenville Fraternal Order of Eagles, #4321 and in previous years he was an active member of the Driftbusters Snowmobile Club and the Belding Sportsman’s Club. He enjoyed and kept busy with many outdoor activities including hunting, snowmobiling and his greatest passion, which was fishing. Even while indoors, he kept tabs on nature by keeping the birdfeeders near his windows filled so he could watch the many varieties of birds that would visit. On summer evenings he enjoyed time with family and friends on the porch, drinking iced tea, enjoying good conversations and observing his favorite place, Slayton Lake.

Waldo’s memories will be cherished by his children John (Christine) Ray of Belding, Carrie (Scott) Yeomans of Gowen and Catherine Ray (Kevin Nelson) of Georgia; grandchildren Jordan (Jessica) Ray, James Ray, Laura Ray, Casey Corey (Dan Heath), Amy Corey (Carlos Guerrero), Daniel “DJ” (Laura) Corey, Jr. and Nathan (Carole) Yeomans; great grandchildren Aidan, Adelynn, Everleigh, Madison, Tyler and Elaina; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Waldo’s family will greet visitors on Saturday, July 10, 2021, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Verdun Family Funeral Home, 303 S. Bridge Street, Belding. The Funeral will take place at the funeral home beginning at 12 Noon with Pastor Paul Hulford officiating. A luncheon will follow the service. Interment With Military Honors will take place at River Ridge Cemetery in Belding. Those wishing to express their sympathy through a memorial donation are welcomed to consider a donation to R.A.V.E. (Relief After Violent Event), a charity serving Montcalm and Ionia Counties. Envelopes will be available at the services, or by contacting the funeral home for additional information at (616) 794-1300 or verdunfh.com.