Raymond Joseph Perron

Raymond Joseph Perron entered his earthly life on September 30, 1939, loved and blessed by God, giving a lifetime of service and left on October 17, 2023 into the arms of his Savior, loved and treasured by his family.

Loving all people, shaking hands, bantering back and forth, Ray's fabulous quick and witty sense of humor and his genuine gift with people have served him well in life.

In early childhood Ray grew up in Escanaba, MI, living with his mom at his grandma and grandpa Perron's house, while his dad served in the Navy. Cousins were his playmates and several aunts and uncles doted on him. Ray moved to Lansing with his parents when he was 5 or 6. The automotive industry was the enticement for his dad.

Anything athletic was his calling which included football, softball, basketball, racquetball, running, biking and golfing. Ray was an All-American athlete and attended Denver University on a football scholarship for 2 years until the football program closed. He went on to play semi-pro football for several years.

Later, and most fun, was playing on a Monday night co-ed softball league with his family and a Friday evening league in Delta. Ray also played on an all-men's team with his sons and son-in-law.

Ray is survived by his loving and devoted wife Janet and his 4 cherished children with his first wife Sandy who predeceased him. Joe (Terri), Penny (Scott), Jim and Mike (Sarah) were the joy of his life. He has 11 grandchildren - Carlos, Shelby, Anthony, Raymond (Brianna), Katie (Zach), Andrea, Holly, Jamie, Matthew, Lacey and Tommy, 3 great grandchildren - Ariana, Aubriella and Vinnie, 1 great-great grandchild - lyanna. He was a very loving dad, promoting confidence, positivity and kindness, always taking the time to listen and be involved in their activities and sports.

Ray met Janet in 1975 and together they enjoyed life attending several live theatre performances in Lansing, Chicago, Detroit, Arizona and South Dakota. Ray loved being on the go. When Janet retired, they traveled with her parents in the fall out east, to the UP, Wisconsin, Illinois, Branson, and Arizona.

Each day ended with a few rousing bridge games, but Ray's game of choice was Euchre. Ray and Janet loved getaways alone or with friends which included a couple of Elder Hostels, but mostly anywhere in Michigan and the U.S.

Ray was Janet's shining star and hero right to the end, an honorable and upright man always looking for the good in others.

Volunteering was a large part of Ray's mission. Friends in need, Mobile Meals, "Ray rides", 7 years as a Burcham volunteer, until the pandemic hit. Ray was Catholic, graduating from St. Mary's High School but went to Peoples Church while driving his mother-in-law there when she no longer could drive.

Always giving, whatever he had, until he was no longer able.

There isn't a friend or gentleman finer than Ray Perron. His positivity and encouraging personality will be missed.

The family wishes to thank Careline Hospice for their excellent care during his time with them.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Southside Kitchen or the Lansing Food Bank, honoring Ray's love of food and helping others.