Ray Flanders

Ray L. Flanders, age 95, of Grand Rapids, threw his last pitch on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Ray was born on August 20, 1928 to Maurice and Laura (Andrews) Flanders and he resided in the North-End his entire life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Charlene and his brothers.

He is survived by his children, Lynda (Steve) Podein, Charles (Tracy) Flanders, and Laura (Dan) LaMore; grandchildren, Sara (Philip) Nowicki, Kristen Podein, Becca (Darin) Tape, Timothy (Whitney) Flanders, Kate (Chris) Mills , Matt (Jennifer) LaMore, Emma (Brandon) Tolsma; 13 great grandchildren; and other extended family.

Ray graduated from Creston HS in 1946 where he excelled as a 3-sport athlete, especially in baseball and was selected to the Michigan Prep Hall of Fame. After earning his Bachelor of Science degree from MSU, he proudly served his country in the Army during the Korean War. He retired as a self-employed contractor specializing in home remodeling. Ray was a member of Second Congregational Church, Valley City Post #356, and the Casino Club of Grand Rapids.

His love of the out-of-doors was a passion he shared with his family. His favorite pastimes included hunting, fishing, bird watching and playing golf. Ray was the “eye in the sky” supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s activities. He was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He always went the extra mile to help and make others happy. Ray will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Go Green!

A memorial service will be held on June 8, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at 2nd Congregational Church; 525 Cheshire Dr. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 where the family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be next to his wife, Charlene, in Fairplains Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Ray’s memory to the American Legion Boat and Canoe Club, Valley City Post #356.