Raymond Whaley

WHALEY - PLEASE NOTE: The service information printed in the Grand Rapids Press and Mlive is not correct. Services will be Monday, May 16, 2011. Mr. Raymond Richard Whaley went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 12, 2011. He was born on July 9, 1924 in Traverse City, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Heman and Rose D. (Bonkoski) Whaley, his siblings Robert Whaley, Marian Niver and Donald Whaley. He was also predeceased by two children, Ryan Raymond Whaley in 1994 at age 45, and Rose Ayars Whaley in 1969 at birth. Ray is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Ellen Jeannine (Weaver) Whaley, married June 19, 1948 in Montrose, MI., children, Ronald Roy (Mary) Whaley of Arizona, Garry Arlie (Judy) Whaley, of Kentwood, MI, and Terry Ralph (Ellen) Whaley of Ada, MI; 10 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren. A special thank you to his granddaughters, Stephanie Whaley and Wendy (Will) Ingraham for their love, care and devotion to Grandpa, as well as to grandson, Russell Whaley, and nieces Deni Whaley, Debra (Doug) Simerson. Ray served in the US Navy during WWII on the Destroyer Escort: US Gustafason. In 1947 Ray moved to Grand Rapids, MI., and worked at Doehler Jarvis Corp for 15 years. He then was hired at Radio Bible Class/Day of Discovery and retired after 30 years. Ray loved sports, especially his son's ball games, golf and hockey. He was active with his church for over 45 years, working with the Boys Club and Sunday School Class. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to his beloved Radio Bible Class Ministries in Grand Rapids, MI. Burial at Ada Cemetery. A Memorial service will be held 2:00 pm on Monday, May 16, 2011 at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, 3000 Monroe NW., with visitation one hour prior to the service. Arrangements made by Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 3131 S. Division Avenue, Wyoming, MI. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Raymond Whaley please visit our Sympathy Store.