Raymond J. LaPointe, "Ray", age 87, of Farmington Hills, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 17, 2023 at Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield Campus.

Ray was born March 24, 1936, in Saint Clair, MI.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Ruby, children, Ray Jr and Mildred Miller and sister, Donna Hack.

Ray was a sweet, gentle soul. He loved family more than anything, and he didn't care how you got there. He was kind to all living creatures, which was evident by sharing his chair, on a daily basis, with anywhere from one to three cats.

One of his favorite things was traveling. It didn't matter how far or near, he was ready to go. Of course, those who knew him best, knew that "going downtown" meant only one thing...the casino. He, especially, loved his first trip to Disney World at the age of eighty. He stayed until the last lights were off.

Ray was, also, a child magnet. Inspite of his size and deep voice, kids seemed to recognize he was a big Teddy Bear. Though he claimed to be shy, he would he would talk to anyone anywhere. He had a smile for everyone, and was the epitome of the expression, "strangers are just friends you haven't, yet, met." He didn't believe in holding grudges, and forgave easily.

Life threw him many curves, like losing his first wife, and a son, but his strong faith in God, kept him going forward. He just accepted, life was for the living, and there's no doubt, he would tell his loved ones, "it's ok to miss me, but continue to enjoy life."

Ray is the loving husband of Kathy, happily married for 2 years but lovingly together for over 10 years; beloved father of Renee McShane (Gerald) and step-father of Donald Devine (Nancy), Karen Mathieson (Bruce), Kelly Baldwin (Scott), Michelle Butka (Dennis) and Kristi Jones; cherished grandfather of Shauna Edgar (Nick), Brandon McShane (Courtney), Sherry Holihan (Steve), Lauren LaPointe, Dana Miller and J.D. Miller (Anna) and step-grandfather of 13, he is also the dearest great grandfather of 19.

The LaPointe family will greet friends Thursday, September 28, 4-8 pm and Friday, September 29, 2-8 pm at the funeral home.

A memorial service for Ray will held Saturday, September 30, 11:30 am at the funeral home.  Family and friends can begin to gather at 10 am.

In lieu of flowers please make all donations to Jay's Juniors, 27675 Halsted Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48331.

Please keep the LaPointe family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.