Name: Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home
Address: Fort Wayne, IN

An old ad, printed in February 1998 to announce Ray's concert in Biella, Italy, led me to this sad discovery. My memory - very good memory - of him is still so vivid, to the point that I can clearly remember when he told me his son's name while having dinner together. Now that I'm 60, Kaleb, I just can imagine how hard it's been for you all to lose him so early.
I long to meet him again in the coming Kingdom, along with other musician brothers who are already worshipping before the Throne! 

Hello I am Melissa. As a young youth at my church in Harlan, Indiana, I remember seeing Ray in concert. I remember being filled with the Holy Spirit while listening to him sing. Over the years I've thought about him and wondered what happened to him. I Thank him for making a long lasting God-loving impression on me. I had his album for a longest time. Glad he had a wonderful life with family.   May he be dancing with Jesus.  I give my  Condolences to the family.

On behalf of Ray's family, and myself, we want to thank you for sharing your love, appreciation and memories of Ray; your shared memories are appreciated and will be forever treasured. We thank you for all the prayers and support during this difficult time. A favorite scripture of Ray's: Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

It's still so hard to believe you're gone from this life, my RayRay. I was so blessed to love you, equally blessed to be loved by you. I still wear the beautiful engagement ring you placed on my finger the night before you went to be with Jesus, though now on my right hand. I will always treasure so many good memories of us in my heart and look forward to the reunion in Heaven where we will surely meet again, my love. 
Your Patricia

We have many good memories of Ray.  Two of our sons, John and Kent played guitar in The Ray Lefevra Band, and often practiced in our recreation room.  Ray and other members of his band would  sometimes eat with us if they arrived at supper time, so we got to know him very well.  We were shocked and saddened to hear of his death.  He touched many young lives with his music and testimony!

I'm heartsick upon reading the news about Ray's passing. I shared many wonderful times with Ray in outreach ministries during the 1980's. He was a great Friend and Brother in Christ and I wanted to offer up these reflections. I've had the privilege to "work behind the scenes" mixing sound with dozens of Christian music artists in the Fort Wayne area during the late 1970's throughout the late 1980's and Ray figures prominently among those wonderful people. He was always driven by the Lord's commission to go out in the World and proclaim the name of Jesus Christ with his own creative style. Although we all harbor doubts and concerns, his assurance of what he was doing never wavered. We prayed together before each outreach ministry and confided in one another, drawing strength in the belief the Holy Spirit had prepared the way no matter what the circumstances. His bold and consistent nature was a genuine example for me of what it means to be a modern day Apostle of Christ Jesus. He's left so many gifts and memories for all of us to share and celebrate....

Ray was one of my dearest hometown friends. When I learned he had passed away, I was just heartbroken. I met Ray LeFevra when I was 15 years old...he was a big part of my life for many, many years. He touched so many lives for Christ through his 35 year+ ministry. Looking back through photos this week brought back great memories which I will always cherish. Praying comfort and peace for his family and friends.

I knew Ray back in the 70's. I sang in his group "A New Mind" at Saint Paul United Methodist Church. He left us all fond memories and was surely a wonderful man!

So saddened to hear ....  He was such a preacher of the Gospel. May God's peace be with those who knew and loved him.  Thanks to those who posted pictures - brings back good memories of him. R.I.P.

I met Ray when I was 15 – my father was his voice teacher& I became an instant fan!  I went to his concerts at schools & churches & also heard him at the Apple.  I knew every word of every song off of his first release & I sold tickets at my high school to his performances.  He told me years later that the reason he had the skill & stamina to sing for long periods of times was due to my father teaching him the correct way to sing & for that he was very grateful. It was apparent to me at that time his love of God, music & Christian ministry were the center of his being.  He was very sincere, enthusiastic &charismatic in his music and his message. We lost touch for many years & I moved out of state.  When I came back for visits he always made time for us to get together.  On one visit I had the pleasure of meeting his son Kaleb when he was only a few years old. The last time I saw Ray was the summer of 2011 when I returned for my 30th high school reunion with my 7 year old son.  The 3 of us spent hours together and Ray and my son hit it off immediately. I posted 2 pictures on this site from that day.  During my time in Indiana he very candidly told me about his intense struggles and we shared on a deep and profound level.  He told me about various ways he was facing his challenges and was very enthused and fulfilled by the work he and Kaleb were doing together.  He was extremely driven to use his experiences to help others.  Our friendship spanned over many years and it was clear to me that his love of God, ministry, Kaleb, family& friends were most important in his life. I believe he was God’s disciple & he literally touched thousands of lives with his ministry. I have heard it said & I believe it to be true that those who have experienced the depths of despair have in doing so increased their soul’s capacity to feel.  And if they seek to find and or strengthen their relationship with God they are capable of being lifted to soaring heights of spiritual experience.  I am convinced that Ray’s earthly journey encompassed both of these extremes.  I am profoundly sad that his time on earth has ended & he will always have a very special place in my heart. He told me once that he loved riding horses backback with no reigns at full gallop through open pastures at night.  His eyes lit up when he talked about how exhilarating and freeing it felt.  I believe Ray, that you are now experiencing exhilarating freedom & peace safely embraced in God’s loving arms - now that your work on earth is done. In everlasting loving memory,


Ray gifted me this bible one month ago today. I will treasure it. Ray got the bible while visiting Jerusalem. I was blessed to love, and be loved by Ray.
"It does not matter how long you live, it's how you live." Quote by Martin Luther King, Jr. Ray greatly admired Martin Luther King, Jr. and read his writings extensively. Ray touched many lives through his ministry and led many to our Lord.  Ray had a genuine compassion for the suffering and oppressed. I am comforted knowing Ray is cradled in God's embrace.  I am certain he is serenading heaven with his beautiful and unique music.  My heart goes out to you Al, Kaleb and your family. May you find solace and comfort knowing he is at peace with our Lord and Savior. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I miss him too.

I met Ray years ago at church camp where he was a camp counselor. He was an inspiration to me and many other people. He was a very talented musician. I loved listening to his music. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and who's lives he touched.
                                                                        Paula Beemer (Fort Wayne, IN)

So many memories......Ray was one of a kind. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Ray and I became friends around 40 years ago, when we met at the Adam's Apple. He was blessed with wonderful musical talent, was fun to be around, and had the heart of an evangelist. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with his family and loved ones.

Ray has a special place in my heart knowing him through Renee. He was a blessing to our family. During a crisis situation in my life he was there praying for me. That meant so much to me. I will miss him. I pray Gods blessing for his family and send my love to them. IN Jesus nme.

Ray never gave up on his faith and earnestly sought the Lord's peace. When he was on he connected and communicated successfully to listeners. He was not afraid to enter the Lion's Den when he had a message or when his caring drove him there. He was much too young to depart this life, but there is confidence in our heart that he is now with His Lord.

One thing about Ray that sticks out in my mind is that he was never shy about sharing the gospel, whether in front of an audience or just one person. There were MANY concerts. Lives were touched, seeds were planted, and many made decisions to follow Christ. Ray knew that he was not perfect, none of us are, not even one; and that it's only by Christ's sacrifice, and our turning our lives to him that we are saved. If anyone reading this post is not clear on this please contact me or another christian on this guest book. Ray would have been very happy for you to do so. Also I'm hoping to hear from many of you as I have lost contact over the years and live far away.
   I felt God clearly lead me to play guitar in the "Ray LeFevra Band". My brother Kent (bass) and I played from day 1, in January 1979, until disbanding in late 1981. I was glad to see that Renee posted a picture of the band after a concert (including Jim Benton, drums). It was a special time for all of us. Ray is one of the funniest people I ever met, he is missed.
   My heart goes out to the LeFevra family. I especially keep thinking of you Al. Again, any of you can contact me for any reason at 909-641-7979.

I met Ray in high school.  He was the leader of the christen class held before school. He came to see me the day I got married 39 years ago. I was only 16 and he wanted me to know he was there for me.  That if i had doubts and did not want to get married  he would help me.  He has stayed in my memory.  I hope he is at peace, sitting next to the lord watching over all the people I know he helped in his life.

I graduated at Northrop High School in 1884. I met Ray through a Bible worship class he was leading there. He also was involved at The Apple worship center on North Clinton at the time. He really inspired me to follow the Lord and to be a better person. I have often thought of him over the years since. RIP Ray.

I knew Ray while teaching at Paul Harding High School.  He spent his years training for his Christian service.  I pray the Lord used him in a mighty way.

Ray was a huge part of the music in the later days of the Apple Ministries.  He and I shared the same vision of reaching out to others through music and sharing Gods' love.  He has run the race and won.  Prayers to all his family

I hope you realized how many lives you touched before you left this life.  I'm thankful that you are in His perfect peace.

Wow! This caught me by surprise. Ray was a good friend. We enjoyed many days of worshiping the Lord together and sharing in ministry. Ray was always a joy to be around. He will be missed by many. Heaven is richer with his presence today. I'll look forward to seeing my friend again when the Lord takes me there. Thank you Lord for Ray! Thank you for taking Ray into your presence! Ephesians 2:8-10 says it is by grace we are saved. Not of works lest any man should boast. Ray knew that grace. God bless all of his family. You are in our prayers in your time of loss.

The Bible tells us "this place is not our home. We are aliens just passing through! I'm glad to know we'll meet again Brother Ray....."

To Al & Caleb....Met Ray at Calvary Temple, Adams Apple concerts, & reconnected with Ray at Imago Dei.....My daughter Megan & I have good memories of such a gifted & talented man. He loved Jesus & even played at the Green Frog Inn to lead Anyone who would listen to the Lord. His struggles are now over, but ALL the many seeds Ray has planted along the way I pray will come to fruision in the lives he has touched along his way. He was a great man and friend who will remain a constant reminder of Gods Mercy & Grace...my love & prayers go out to Rays family & Friends. Shelly& Megan.

Now you are playing music up in heaven. you have touched many of us, from the adams apple, juvenile groups, churches, the streets, and even our children. Thank you for your ministry, you are loved and missed. May our Heavenly Father comfort your family members who experiencing a deep loss of your presecence. RIP Rae

It seemed like yesterday, my sis and I going to just about every Ray Lefevra Band Concert we could find. Whether it was at The Apple or Escape, we knew we were with family. He always knew how much we all enjoyed his talents and his heart for God. May you rest now, dear brother Ray, in God's prescence.

I have many special memories of Ray; playing guitar on his 2nd album, water skiing at the lake, and lots of laughter. Most of all, fellowship with this special brother. Now, Ray, enjoy the presence of the Lord.

Ray was a unique man of God.  Loved his passion and heart for God and people.  Though our family lost touch with him over the years, my heart feels the loss of this man in our world.  Trusting he is rejoicing as never before in the presence of his Lord!  Our prayers for all who love him and will miss him.

Such wonderful memories of our friendship in high school and reconnecting several years ago. I'd often end up over at his parents house after school and we just laugh, cry, and talk about our faith for hours.  He was such a beautiful person inside and out. His love for the Lord was strong. Prayers of peace to his family which he talked about often and the love he had for them. May the Lord give you peace that Ray is at peace and watching over you from heaven for he is with the Lord.   ❤ you Ray.

We met Ray years ago through Church.  My husband was in small group with him at some point.  We loved Ray---have one of his CD's---loved his heart and his passion for those who didn't know Jesus.  The news of his passing is a great sadness to us, but we know he is with His Heavenly Father's.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family!  Jim and Sharla Bryant

R.I.P. Ray absent from the body present with the Lord. My sympathy to his family. Till You Meet Again Peace.
Renee'

Love lives beyond death, and you are greatly loved.

Praying for peace and that everyone gets any closure that may be needed. Grandma now has her son with her. Give that beautiful angel a hug for me, Ray!

I'm thankful to have known Ray and so very sorry to hear of his passing. My brother and I played in his band. He was always joking and so much fun to be around. I am one of many who were affected in a positive way by his faith and crazy sense of humor.

I am so upset to hear about this! I accepted Jesus into my heart at one of his concerts.  Our family was such good friends with the Lefevra's.  May God's love wrap his arms around you sweet Al and family.

I am profoundly saddened by the passing of my childhood friend.
Ray was my friend and my mentor. From boyscouts with his dad Al as our scout leader, to the youth group at St Paul, to summer church camp, to teaching me how to water ski with his brother in-law Dave, to swimming in the gravel pit and I will never forget screaming down the road in a bright RED Roadrunner. He was unwavered in his faith, and was a true entertainer on and off the stage. He never met a stranger and had an infectious personality. My heart and love goes out to the entire LaFevra family. I will forever love my brother in Christ.

Ray was a Harding high school classmate of mine and fellow choir member. I remember his kind soul ,  love of music, fun sense of humor, and his "Donald Duck" voice. ☺  He was well loved by all. To his family: I wish you peace.

Wow, I can't even believe this has happened!!!  My husband played bass in his band for many years.  We are dumbfounded about this.  My husband's brother played guitar for him for several years as well.  We will miss him very much.  He was an amazing person.  Rest in peace Ray.

In addition to my prior entry, I would like to add that Ray was such an encouragement and inspiration to both Lang and I. Ray you will be missed. Rest in peace.

My sympathy to all those who know and love Ray. Ray lead me to Christ. He was a friend and neighbor.Most of all Ray loved the Lord.  God bless all,Cindy  Pyle, Sholl,Gaumer

My family and I were heartbroken to hear about Ray's passing. It was an honor to have been a part of Ray's music and ministry, I have so many fond memories of that time. Ray married Lang and I back in 1986 and that memory as well holds a special place in my heart. My condolences and prayers go out to Ray's family and friends. May the peace of God hold everyones heart near as we remember all the ways our lives were touched by Ray's presence

He was a friend from my neighborhood, my camp counselor, my friend and brother. I think of him always. He was a true artist, I still have his album Little Brother. I am so sorry for your loss. He is truly missed.

Many great memories of youth group at St. Paul! Our singing group "A New Mind" led by Ray was a joy to be a part of. Ray-you will always have a special place in my heart. Al & family - my heart aches for all of you. I love you Lefevra family!

Sending our love and prayers for Al and his family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Bill and Wanda Valor

Ray was a camp counselor to my husband, co-counselor with my sister and a friend to us all.  In all the years we went to church camp he was a constant fixture full of love.  It saddens us to hear that our old friend and talented musician Ray LaFevra passed away. May his family feel the love that Ray shared with so many of us. He had a way of touching everyone around him from his crazy fearlessness to his serious heart felt ways. He will be missed.  Lori (Hollinger) & Terry Berndt

Part of Christian music's earlier days, neat he stayed with it. Once the "little Brother" sounds like he became a Father to many by his life and music. We need more who will take up the challenge to meet and keep meeting our culture with the talents God provides. Thank you Ray!

Deepest Condolences to his family.  So very sorry for your loss

We're glad to have known Ray. He had seen some spiritual mountain tops and some really tough valleys. We always had a sense of how much the Father loved him. We will miss you Ray.  

Gil & Jan Diaz

When I saw Ray's obituary this morning I was so sad to see such a wonderful person pass at a young age.  Ray was my counselor at Epworth Forrest in the late 70's and early 80's.  He inspired me and many of my friends, we later would go see him perform his music at church events. This morning the last song we sang in church was "Pass it on " which was one of the songs Ray lead at camp.  May the Lord wrap his arms around Ray! Rest in Peace my friend! With deep sympathy, Wendy Maggert-Marti

Cuz you were like a brother to me I already miss you. I will always hold our memories together in my heart. We always ended each day with the text "sweet dreams cuz"  I love you and will remember you forever. See ya on the other side cuz RIP

Dearest Al and family I am heartbroken since receiving the news about Ray. 
His death leaves heartache, 
no one but God can heal 
Your precious memories are a keepsake that you can always reflect on, and you will always have him in your heart.

Al my prayers and condolences to you. Been years since I last saw you, and Ray was a good friend to me too. He left a permanent mark on my life. The song Little Brother has been going through my mind since I first heard of his passing.

Ray was a bright light at Harding High School. His love and dedication to music will always be remembered

Ray touched so many lives in his ministry. His heart for people will long be remembered. May his loved ones feel the comforting arms of God around them, and the many prayers supporting them through this loss.

I remember Ray leading Bible rap at Harding High school when I Attended there. He was always so encouraging. Please know I am praying for the family

Al my condolences and prayers are with you nd your family. Ray was lways one of my good friends even though we lost touch  few times. Rest in peace!

OBITUARY

Ray LeFevra

30 July, 1958 – 16 April, 2015

Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home

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