Ray Kaye

Ray is survived by his son Robert Kaye (Sheri), grandsons Carson Kaye, Jake Kaye, and sister Suzanne McDonough. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Elizabeth Kaye and brother Richard Kaye.

Ray graduated from Detroit Denby High School before attending and graduating from the Detroit Institute of Technology on a swimming scholarship. Ray had a long and distinguished career as a teacher, teaching many subjects, including english and science but mostly remembered for his prowess as a gym teacher at Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores. He touched many students over the years with his motivation and stories, making class fun and something to remember.

But Ray was best known for his long and dedicated career as a swim coach, impacting generations of both club and high school swimmers. His motivation for a swimming career was clearly influenced early on by his father, Raymond Kaye, who competed in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin as a breaststroker. Ray coached the varsity boys and girls swim teams for a combined 31 seasons at Lakeview as well as coaching summer club teams at Grosse Pointe Hunt Club, Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Lochmoor, Country Club of Detroit, Detroit Yacht Club and Detroit Golf Club. The legendary impact he had on so many of his swimmers and the inspiration he provided to do your absolute best is something that he will always be remembered for. Ray’s impact is shown by the countless swimmers that remained in touch with him over the decades, often dropping in on him happily unannounced with smiles, stories, and a lot of laughter.

Ray had countless hobbies, one of which was riding his bike around town. Most Grosse Pointers probably recognized this familiar figure at some point as he rode by smoking a cigar and always saying hello. Ray also had an affinity for New York City from a young age. He eventually purchased and shared an apartment on Park Ave with his dear friend Patricia Ott. Visiting NYC was his home away from home as he knew nearly every street in every borough, recounting countless stories of his adventures as well as acting as a tour guide for friends and family when they came to visit.

Ray is mostly known as a person who went out of his way to help people in their time of need. When he heard that somebody was going through a difficult period, he would automatically jump at the drop of a hat to help, providing support and holding their hand through their most difficult times. Countless stories have been shared by many of Ray Kaye helping guide them through very dark moments and back out into the sunshine.

Visitation will be held at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. His memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.