He was born on June 26, 1941, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan, to proud parents, Howard Ray Chase and Gertrude Violetta Sample.
On June 24, 1967, Ray married the love of his life, JoAnn Margaret Putnam, in Lansing, Michigan. Their union was blessed with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Ray graduated from Eastern High School in 1959 and continued his education at Michigan State University. He had a passion for education and dedicated himself to teaching 8th-grade American history for St. Johns Public Schools and Sebewaing Public Schools, leaving a lasting impact on his students. A man of faith, Ray was a dedicated member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Lansing, Michigan. He was also actively involved in his community, being a member of Lansing Elks Lodge 196, Alma Elks Lodge 1400, and Lansing Eagles Aerie 1039.
Ray will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, JoAnn; his children, Kevin (Lyn) and Christopher (Kristan); grandchildren, Jessica (Tony), Angela, Joshua, Dean, Ruby, Mara, Jacob, Lilia, Vivian, and Nicholas; great-grandchildren, Luca, Giavanna, Aeyla, and Marlee; as well as many cousins and one uncle. He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Gertrude.
Ray had a love for travel and sports. He was a lifelong supporter of the MSU Spartans and the Detroit Tigers, cheering them on with unwavering loyalty. His vibrant spirit, zest for life, and infectious enthusiasm for his beloved Spartans will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. GO GREEN!!
A visitation for Ray will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 East Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ray’s memory may be made to The Elks National Foundation, Michigan Major Project, and Michigan Gold Key Scholarships.
