Leva William Ray, age 92 of Grand Haven, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at home. He was born on March 27, 1928 in Hornersville, MO to the late Walter and Ethel (Davidson) Ray. Leva married Caroline Zimmerman on September 24, 1949 and she preceded him in death on October 24, 1998. He then married Marie Pitts on May 19, 2007.
Leva was a hard-working, good old southern boy raised on cornbread, watermelon and sweet-tea who loved John Deere tractors and restoring vintage cars. He always had a drive to make something out of his life, and worked for Eagle Ottawa Leather Co. for 38 years until his retirement. Leva also enjoyed gardening, especially growing tomatoes, and farming. His children and grandchildren meant the world to him and he always tried to make sure they were well cared for.
Leva is remembered and missed by his wife, Marie; two daughters, Peggy (Bryon) Haynes and Brenda (Tim) Ray-Tahtinen; three sons: Larry Ray, David (Ruth Anne Dashner) Ray, and Randy (Gay Maria) Ray; 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Hilda Zimmerman, Marjorie Velik, and Clara Anne Hitsman.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Caroline; sister, Chris Hawes; and brother, Charles Ray.
The Graveside Service for Leva will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Grand Haven Township Lakeshore Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Jared Cramer officiating.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice.
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