Robert Ray Earl

Robert “Bob” Ray Earl, age 86, went to be with his Lord Sunday, February 9, 2025. He was born June 19, 1938 in Rockville, Indiana to the late George and Mildred Earl. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Louise Jackson Earl, whom he married September 5, 1959. Other survivors are children Marta (David) Luce, Teresa Dufon, and Janice Rausch; grandchildren Andrew (Kristi) Luce and Danielle Dufon (partner, Ricky); great-grandchildren Hannah Luce, Noah Luce, and William Luce; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He graduated from Bridgeton High School and Indiana State University. He was an honorary Mason. He worked various jobs in his life; most years were spent at Marathon Oil and he retired from Kent Community Hospital in 1994. He loved coaching Little League softball and won the World Series in 1986. He also enjoyed playing golf and bowling. He was a devoted Johnny Cash fan.

He was preceded in death by sisters Bonnie (Robert) Riddle, Grace (Dick) Lightle, Marilyn Nickle, and Roberta Wolfe; and brother, William (Delores) Earl; son-in-law, Mark Dufon; and grandson, Anthony Luce.

The family would like to say thank you to the staff at Yorkshire and Stonebridge Manors in Walker, Michigan. The administrator and staff gave him comfort and peace in his final days.

Visitation with friends and relatives will be held from 9-11 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2025 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie Street SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A celebration of Robert’s life will commence immediately after at 11 a.m., Cook Memorial Chapel. Pastor Gary Leyendecker will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Bob's name to Georgetown Little League Girls' Softball. The family welcomes memories and messages www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.