Ray Kempf

KEMPF, RAY, 90, died suddenly at his home on June 13, 2007. Ray was born in St. Matthews, July 30, 1916. He has lived his entire life in St. Matthews. He attended the old Holy Trinity grade school on Shelbyville Road and graduated from there in 1930. He then went to DuPont Manual High School and graduated from there in winter, 1934. He has remained an active member of the Manual Alumnae Association. He was a World War II vet, having served three years with the 16th Armored division in Europe. Ray worked as a lathe operator at Tube Turns for 40 years. Ray was one of the founding members of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, having joined in 1950. He has remained an active member since that time. Ray was a life member of Zachary Taylor Post #180, the American Legion, a member of St. Joseph's Orphan Society and a life member of the 16th Armored Division Association. In his later life, Ray wrote two books about life in St. Matthews. One book was titled, "A Walk with Ray," and the other "Ray's Tales." His wife Frances; brothers, Carl, Paul, Joe and Jack; and his sister, Patricia Sullivan, preceded Ray in death. Ray was the devoted father to three children, Susie Robinson (Scott), Joan McGiveney (Bill) and Steve Kempf (Linda). He is survived by six grandchildren, Kevin DeLozier (Renee), Beth DeLozier, Julie Baum (John), Tim McGiveney (Kim), Brian McGiveney, and Steve Kempf (Kelly); five great-grandchildren, Hunter, Kailey, Ryan, Jack and Sam also survive him; six of 12 siblings survive, Al, Ralph, Mary Jean Kempf, Margaret Bode (Paul), Ginger McKune (Don), Ruth Weibel. Ray will be placed next to his beloved Frances, where together they will wait the Lord's final coming. Ray was a beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend. His legacy will live on in those who love him. He fought the good fight and kept the faith. Funeral services will be Saturday 1 p.m. at his church 508 Breckenridge Ln., with Burial at Calvary cemetery, visitation Friday 2-8 p.m. at Ratterman's 3711 Lexington Rd. Memorial may made to Boys Haven.