Raymond Lee Wildeboer Sr, of Hudsonville Michigan, passed away tragically and unexpectedly surrounded by his family and longtime friends on September 15, 2022, at Butterworth hospital, he was 50 years old. He was born on May 5th, 1972, in Grand Rapids, MI to Thomas and Dawn (Bagge) Wildeboer. Ray worked a few different jobs over the years to support his family, most recent at Blendon Cattle where he was a farm hand/truck maintenance. Ray met the love of his life, Susan Patten in 1995, and they were married February 16th, 1996, in Allegan, MI. Together they raised three amazing children and celebrated 26 years of marriage.

Ray loved the outdoors, fishing with his children, ice fishing, camping or just sitting by the fire pit with his family sharing a few laughs. He was master of the grill, and made ribs that would put any 5-star chef to shame. He had a vast knowledge of car maintenance and repair which he in turn taught to his son. Many a weekend AC/DC could be heard coming from the garage as he worked on his, a friend or family’s vehicle, sometimes accompanied by a few choice words when that rusted bolt just wouldn’t give. He had many longtime friends, and he loved to regal Sue and his children with all the fun, sometimes crazy adventures he had with them growing up.

Ray was funny, smart, strong and stoic, but also gentle and loving, he loved animals and rescued many a stray kitten/cat in his day. He loved his cat of 6 years Ernie (Ern), named after his father-in-law that had passed. That cat could always be found on his lap or sitting on his shoulder and never too far behind him. Ray was somewhat of a gamer, and he played an online rpg game on and off over the years, where he made many online friends whom even though they never met him in person, felt the sting of losing such a great friend. But that is the kind of person Ray was, he made an impact on every person he befriended, he was kind and fiercely loyal. And most of all, he always put Sue and his children before all else, he loved them unconditionally and deeply. Ray left behind an example of how to be a great husband and father and friend. No words in an obituary could ever come close to describing what a wonderful human being he was. He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.

Ray is survived by his soulmate and wife of 26 years, Sue; his four children, Rayanne, Summer, Raymond Jr., and Tiffany (Richard) Anger; his parents, Tom and Dawn; sister, Amy Dove; brother, Brian Wildeboer; and many other relatives and friends.

Per Ray’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of life is being planned and details will be announced as soon as they become available.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Ray’s online guest book or to share a favorite memory please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & funeral care, Grand (616) 452-3006.