Ray Preston Wooden

Ray P. Wooden, 66, of Portage, passed away at home July 13th, 2016, surrounded by family that he loved dearly. Ray was born September 19, 1949 in Kalamazoo to James and Muriel Wooden. September 23rd, 1967 he married the love of his life Peggy L. Webster. Ray retired from Georgia Pacific where he worked 33 years and was active as a union member in the local Fireman and Oilers union. He worked many years with his brother Jim in firebrick. He was a long time member of the Portage/Schoolcraft Eagles. He liked to watch football and car shows but his biggest passion was his family. He took great pleasure in seeing his family weather it was a group gathering, a quick stop by visit, or a chaotic loud holiday gathering. As grandchildren came he enjoyed having them around to play with them and watch them grow and flourish into young adults. When Ray retired he took on new hobbies or "jobs". He took over "micromanaging" his wife,and some of the baking and took pride in knowing he was the only one that could make the sugar cookies. Ray is survived by his wife Peggy; their two children, Lisa (Tony) Pringle and James L. (Stephanie) Wooden; four grandchildren Blayne and Sydnee Wooden, Rochelle and Anthony J. Pringle; a brother Michael (Uta) Wooden and several nephews and neices, and Mother in law Margorie Webster. Ray was preceded in death by his parents; brothers James C., Milton, Robert Wooden and sister Sharon Renyolds. Brother in laws Rodney Webster, Thomas Reynolds, a sister in law Roxann Yeager, and a nephew E. Kelly Reynolds. There will be a private graveside service for family. Please join the family Thursday July 21st , 2016 at 1:00 P.M. for luncheon and a celebration of Ray's life, at the Portage/Schoolcraft Egales on Shaver Road. In lieu of flowers donations to Reverence Home Health & Hospice are appreciated.