Checking over the entries,  mine is missing. What wonderful tributes to my loving brother. We shared so many wonderful times and sad times together. You have been such a big part of my life. Thank you For always being there for so many of us. Lou

Uncle Rod was in the Navy reserves for 4 years - not WWII.  My mistake. David Nelson

Marie and family-

On behalf of the Novello family, please  know, we hold you all in our thoughts and prayers.

My parents have enjoyed many years of cherished friendship and great memories with you and Rod.

We share your sadness!

The two favorite memories I have of Uncle Rod are of riding with him on his Harley at about age 10 and also playing poker with he and David at Horsehead Lake. That was also about age 10. Uncle Rod was a really cool uncle.

Always remember him with a smile and also knew he would always be there for any of us.  
Mary Eisele nee Hazelton

Uncle Rod. He gave far more than he ever took. The exception was at the poker table. RIP

Dear Marie,  Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  Frank & Joan Nelson, Grand Ledge, MI

A great man.  A WWII veteran.  We left Michigan when I was 13 years old.  I did not get to know him a whole lot.  But he must have been pretty special for my mom to name a son after him.  In his obituary, it talks about his love for cookies.  We had home over for dinner when he visited down here in Florida. I will never forget he "double dipped" on the dessert!!!  God bless Uncle Rod.  David and Sue Nelson.

I helped Rod for a time with cares that were often difficult. Through all of it, I had never been a caregiver to anyone who made me laugh more, or had a more positive outlook while dealing with the diagnosis he had been giving 25+ years earlier. It seemed like a party while visiting both Rod and Marie. Marie, your rewards are many as it was obvious you'd never give up on the care and love for your wonderful husband. The peace you must have in all your treasured memories are greatly admired. It truly was my pleasure to help.

ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS AND NEXT DOOR BUDDY,PLUS WE WORKED TOGETHER FOR L.F.D.AND MY SAILING BUDDY AT HORSEDEAD LAKE.

Dear Aunt Marie and family,
I will miss my favorite Uncle Rod forever.  I will think of him every time I play cards and can't remember what number is wild ("Count your cards - he would say with a smile),  every time I paint a room using the brushes he bought me and the proper way to "cut the paint in"
I thank him for being the best brother to my mom, who loved him dearly.
Love to all,
Ellen Shelberg Horstman

Rod & Marie have always held
a special place in My Heart. 
My Thoughts and Prayers
are with the Family.

Love, Phillis

Dear Marie, Rod and family,  I have known  Marie and Rod since Pattengill Jr. High.  And we have been on our 1948 Class Reunion Committee for years together.  You have been two wonderful friends, and I have always admired you so much and love both of you.  such great examples as friends, parents, grandparents, your devotion to each other, your family, the Fire Dept. etc., etc. Thank you for being a part of our lives and Marie, please call me if there is ANYTHING I can do to help.  thanks Ray family for letting us share your Dad's wonderful life all these years.  God's blessings to you ALL.
Betsy (Hank), our three boys, David, Mike and Scott Bowers
East Lansing/OKEMOS

Grandpa was the most caring, loving and cheerful person to be around.  Whether we sang together, danced together or just laughed together the grand kids- Katie, Ellie, Zachary, Jessie and Raquel always enjoyed being in his presence. We are beyond thankful for all of the smiles and memories he has cherished us with.  We will always miss and never forget the most wonderful grandpa! 

Love,
Ellie

I hope to live a life as long and as happy as you did, I love you Grandpa.

Dad was the best father-in-law and grandfather a family could ask for.  We will remember all of your love and kindness.  We will miss you & think of you everyday.  Love Always, Isabelle, Zachary & Raquel Ray

I met Rod as a kid because he was my father's friend. It didn't take long to call him my friend as well. He was also my work partner, my boss, beer buddy and family treasure. He was the first to offer help to anyone, usually hard, physical labor. If you had a project going on, Rod would be there. If you needed something, he would find it for you, loan it to you or buy it for you. He loved to laugh, to live and to give. His selfless love for family and friends is the most amazing of anyone I have ever met. Rest now, old buddy. See you later.      Marie, Laurie, Julie and David in spirit; you can always count on me. Love, Mike

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Dear Marie, Julie, Laurie and Family,
As I grew up you were my second family.  Your husband/dad will be missed!  He was always so friendly and welcoming.  Our hearts and prayers are with you in this time of loss.
Love always,
Pam (Rogers) and Harold Campbell

Rodney was a great man!  Meeting David in high school and spending a lot of time at Rodney and Marie's house was always pleasant due them being fun and loving people.  
Rod loves playing cards and riding his Harley with Dave and his friends.  Many good times!!  
Rest in peace Rod!!

OBITUARY

Rodney Robert Ray

26 September, 1930 – 27 February, 2015

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes

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