Raymond “Ray” C. Bradford

It was with great sadness that we said goodbye to Raymond “Ray” C. Bradford, our father, grandpa and brother Friday, November 20, 2020.  He passed away of complications of several health issues including diabetes, heart, breathing and novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Ray was born December 16, 1948 to William and Dolores Bradford.

He graduated from Rogers City High School in 1967. From there he enlisted in the United States Air Force, spending eight years in service for his country. He lived many years after the service in Muskegon working as a surgery tech at Muskegon General Hospital. He was an avid golfer and bowler. He did well in both sports and thoroughly enjoyed them. However, besides those two sports, his true passion was for APBA boat racing. For years he was part of the “Team Thirlby” as a pit crew helper and later actually racing himself!  He passed this passion on to his son Ray, Jr, (Charlie) who is still involved with racing and still part of “Team Thirlby.” After retiring from the hospital, Ray would spend a few years wintering in Haines City, Florida and summers in Muskegon.

Ray is survived by two, sons Ray (Jill) Bradford Jr. of Copemish and William Bradford of Holton; three brothers, Rick (Martin) Bradford of San Francisco, California, John (Nancy) Bradford of Spokane, Washington

and Chuck (Trena) Munn of Old Hickory, Tennessee; and four sisters, Mary Rountree of Sebring, Florida, Marty (Bucky) Buxton of Clio, Allyn Lutz of Flint and Cheryl (John) Soper of Shelbyville, Tennessee. He also has three grandsons, Jacob and Andrew Emmons of Muskegon and Brenden Bradford of Holton; and two granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Jozlyn Bradford of Holton. He also leaves behind one aunt, Beverly Thirlby; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and lots of wonderful friends.

Ray was preceded in death by all his grandparents; his parents, William and Dolores Bradford; along with many aunts and uncles.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.