Raymond Robert Behan

A man who tried his best every day to be a good and decent son, husband, father, grandfather, teacher, counselor, uncle and friend, Raymond R. Behan, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2017. Born August 24, 1931 in Detroit, Ray is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Lorraine Behan, his daughter, Elizabeth (Mark) Flynn, his son, Michael (Tracy) Behan, and grandchildren, Kelsey Behan, Eric Behan, Ryan Behan, Jack Behan, Madeline Flynn, Matthew Flynn, Joseph Flynn and Sara Flynn. Nothing in this world mattered more to Ray Behan than family, and he derived his greatest pleasure in spending time with his family and friends. He was happiest on movie dates with his wife, and at sporting events with his grandchildren. While he could be a tough movie critic, the actual outcome of games mattered little to Ray.

A man of faith, Ray Behan nevertheless believed deeply, and reminded his family often, that 'the journey is the reward'. He set a good example of this. Ray truly enjoyed his journey and honestly liked most people he met. He put effort into getting to know people. He enjoyed reliving past experiences through stories, but he delighted even more learning about other people's lives.

Ray Behan's professional accomplishments are too numerous to list, and certainly are not what defined him. He liked being a lawyer (which he remained actively practicing until his death), but enjoyed equally his years teaching as an adjunct at Michigan State, and before that at Lansing Community College. Ray enjoyed serving as a trustee of the Detroit College of Law (now Michigan State) since 1974.

A proud graduate of Highland Park Community College, Michigan State College and Detroit College of Law, Ray spoke even more of the lessons learned as a soda jerk, bowling pinsetter, movie usher, drop forge assembler, fence builder, army surveyor, and trust officer. Aside from spending time with people, Ray enjoyed gardening and especially giving vegetables away.

His was a life well lived. He laughed often, tried always to be honest, and to give his best effort. He saw the value in people, and was of the strong opinion that we are our brother's keeper. Ray Behan could walk with kings, but he seemed never to lose the common touch. He will be missed.

A special thanks to all the members of the CIC Unit at Sparrow Hospital whose competency and kindness are deeply appreciated, and would not have gone unnoticed by Ray. In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Association (JDRF).

The family will greet friends on Sunday, May 7, 2017 from 5pm to 8pm at St. Thomas Aquinas at 955 Alton Road in East Lansing, with a Funeral Mass at St. Thomas on Monday, May 8, 2017 at 11:00 AM, the Rev. Mark Inglot officiating with visitation at the church one hour prior to service.