Uncle you will be deeply missed I will always remember the talks that we have had and the time we spent when on break from howell or when there visiting God bless you

One of my favorite memories of Raymond Bolender is from when I was working in an office above Simon Med Imaging. He made a special trip to come upstairs to see me before his appointment there, just to say hello and to let me know that he remembered me. It was such a thoughtful gesture and truly showed his kind heart. I’ll never forget the warm hug he gave me that day. It meant so much to know he took the time to stop by and see me. It’s a memory I’ll always cherish about him.

Shelli, your dad was an amazing person, and his memory will live on forever. We are deeply sorry for your loss. Your dad's presence had a positive and lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. 
                             Michael and Jodi

Shelli and family
My sincerest condolences to you and your family on your dad's passing. Even through I only meet your dad that one time we meet up  for lunch I feel like I knew him with all the talks you and I had daily. You would always talk about him the the things he did and the work he did at the metal shop and the tv shows he liked . I don't think a day went by without you mention him so therefore I felt like I knew him . I know he will be missed but I know for sure that he was loved by you , JR and your boys ,Rest In Peace Ray 

Connie Click

From the day I joined your family you have been more 
than just a father- in -law to me. You have been a loving and caring Father figure to me. Your warmth and acceptance have touched my 
heart, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have you in my life.
You will always be dear to my heart and loved forever.
Son-in-law

To JR, Shelli, Nick and Ryan,

Deepest sympathy to Shelli and the family.  We loved visiting with your dad when he would come over to your house and/or when we would have dinner at Shanghai Grill.   He had great stories especially when he would talk about his metal art. We are so impressed with his talent.  I’m so glad he refurbished the metal chair for Tom.  We will always think of him when we look at that chair. Shelli,  I know there are lot of good memories you have of your dad.  These days are not easy but we are here for you if you need anything, except quarters!  Your dad would understand :) 

Rest easy Ray.  
Tom and Jennifer Ashmore

Shelli, JR, Nick & Ryan,

We are very sorry to hear of your dad passing.  Even though we only met him a few times, we felt like we knew him more because of all the wonderful things we heard about him.  We’re so glad that you have all those great memories of him.  You did a wonderful thing taking care of your dad & he knew you all loved him.

Sending Love & Prayers of comfort to you all!
Lori & Jeff Melton

My warmest condolences hearing of the loss of Uncle Red. I had the honor of having a memorable chat on the phone with him earlier this year, for a bit over a precious hour, sharing stories and reminiscing together. He sounded so vibrant and sharp, and his passion of family was quite clear. Not only the love and pride of his immediate family, but his many many years and hours of devotion researching and recording the Bolender family history. He will be deeply missed.

I was sorry to hear of Uncle Reds passing.  He and mom  (sister Jean) shared a special bond.  She looked forward to their Sunday chats.  He always sent us fresh oranges from his yard and was a delight to talk to on the phone.  I am sure he and mom are catching up with Uncle Paul as we speak.  They will both be sorely missed.

To Raechelle and family:  I remember you dad and mom as greatly welcoming to me while I lived about a block or so South of you on Fourth Street, and I on N. Monroe Street in my first apartment in  Sturgis. You were only 3 years old then, but we caught up with one another a few times after I had been married in 1966 to your dad's co-worker, Mike Conklin.  Your dad always had a certain self-confidence.  I am glad his obituary included details of hobbies/work he had enjoyed.  Sounds like he had a vital life of pursuits until nearly the end.  I am glad for him and you.  I would love to know more about your family.  Remembering fondly as well your mom and sisters.
  --Mary Conklin Craaybeek (remarried 2010; Mike died 2003) 
      marycraaybeek@gmail.com    269-625-6422 (text)

My condolence to the family.  Ray and family were great neighbors when they lived just down the road on Lennon Rd in Nottawa Michigan. Ray was one of the first to have a Ice skating ring on Sand Lake each winter.

Shelli, JR and Family,

Our deepest sympathy to all the family.  
We are neighbors to Shelli and JR and that is how I met Ray.   Our conversations were generally in the Hochstetler garage when he was over there.  Working with metal was definitely his love and passion.  I thoroughly enjoyed his experiences and stories of work and hobby while the cards were being delt or what ever else was bringing every one together on that day.  We always enjoyed the abundant supply of citrus fruit that Ray's trees seemed to supply to anyone who wanted them.  
Memories are something no one can take away from us and it appears from pictures and condolences already posted that Ray  was deeply loved and appreciated by family, friends and acquaintances.  RIP RAY!

Howard & Marlys Bartels

Shelli, JR, Nick & Ryan,

Everything you could, you did.  All the love you had, you gave.  You took such good care of Red, that's a gift that will last forever.

Our love, thoughts and prayers,
Pete & Monica

TO:  SCW METAL CLUB MEMBERS 

It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of Ray Bolender passing away on October 5, 2024, surrounded by his family at his home in Sun City West.

Ray was part of a special group of members who have a 3-digit badge number signifying their seniority within the Metal Club - Ray joined the club on August 10, 2002 (Badge #811).  For twenty-two years, Ray came to the club each morning to work on his projects, share stories and advice, and have a cup of coffee with his dear friends.  You would never guess his age at 91 given his vitality, sharp intellect and list of projects he wanted to accomplish.

Ray had a remarkable way to think about metal to solve challenging problems by developing creative solutions.  He had a successful professional career in Michigan in the fields of machining, engineering and sales before he and his wife, Ruth, retired to Sun City West in 2001.  Ray joined the Metal Club and began his journey to create large-scale kinetic garden structures that required precision and exactitude to the highest degree.  Several club members sought out Ray's machining advice describing him as a 'metal genius' who could offer guidance on complex issues within moments, often with some Midwestern common sense and a bit of humor, too.

Ray will be laid to rest at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City, Arizona, in a private service with his family.  Ray's family has very generously requested contributions in his memory to be given to his beloved Sun City West Metal Club.  Contributions can be made in the donation box located at the Monitor Desk.

Our club has lost a dear and dedicated member with the passing of Ray, but his contributions and memories will remain in our club for years to come.

With our deepest sympathies to Ray's family and friends,

SCW Metal Club
13849 W Camino Del Sol
Sun City West, AZ  85375
Phone:  623-584-0150
Website:  www.scwmetalclub.com

Shelli and JR and family,
You know, I was actually thinking of you just a few days ago. You come to mind every now and again. Especially thinking of you and Red at this time. You had (have) a wonderful family. If you are like me, they are thought of daily. I still have my siblings, where as you do not. 
May your faith  remain strong and peace be with you.
Love,
Lesa Kinder

This is a picture forwarded to me by my mom’s cousin Kathy. It is an amazing photo of the Bolender brothers - Paul, Richard, and Raymond. Paul was my grandfather and is the oldest, followed by Uncle Dick, then little guy Uncle Red.

Shelli, Jr, and family -

Dena and I send our condolences. I was saddened to hear of the loss of Uncle Red. I called him every now and then, just to see how he was doing. He always gave a detailed update on every one on that side of the family, especially his grand sons who he was very proud of.

Thinking of you all.

Patrick & Dena Rohr

You are now in our Maker’s hands along with your beautiful wife and family.
Someday, we will all be together, but until then, Glory Be To God. ✝️

Shelli and Family,
My condolences on Uncle Red’s passing.  I cherish my memories of him.  He was  not only a great Uncle to me, but was the epitome of a great Family man.  He loved his family and his actions reflected it.  He was one of the smartest men I knew.  I am greatful to have had him as my Uncle.  May he rest in peace with Aunt Ruth,  Raeletta, and Jeannie.  God Bless you all.  
Denise Marks 🙏🏼

Dear Shelli.  My sincerest condolences to you on Uncle Red’s passing.  I know there is a hole in your heart right now, but you have so many wonderful memories of your dad.  The one memory I have of Uncle Red is he made me a motorized box car when I was a little kid.  God bless you, Shelli and your family.  I will always remember all the great Bolender family reunions and Grandma Bolender’s homemade noodles.  Take deep breaths, dear cousin..  Rest in peace, dearest Uncle Red.
 

Cousin Dave Freeland, Glory, Brett, & Tyler

My condolences to you all! You are in my thoughts and prayers. I always loved Uncle Red! I spent many summers at the Bolender house during my youth. He always welcomed me and made me feel at home. I always thought him to be a very intelligent man and an amazing father to his girls. Many precious memories with him, Aunt Ruth, and the girls. May you rest in heaven Uncle Red!

Shelly and JR, Mary and I are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I still remember being amazed at some of his yard art and how talented he was. It was also an honor to have officiated you Mother’s passing in 2011. You and your Father hold a special place in our hearts.

Uncle Red, you were always one of my favorite uncles. You were always approachable, and took the time to listen and talk.  You’ll be missed by many and always remembered.  God Bless you.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Raymond Lee Bolender

12 décembre 1932 – 5 octobre 2024

Sunland Memorial Park, Mortuary & Cremation Center

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