Ray Johnson Obituary
Ray graduated from Battle Creek Central in 1963 and went to work for a short period at Dare Products before enlisting as a Reservist in the Army. Once he realized bowling was his passion, he got a job at Ken Nottke Bowl (now Bowlero) so he could perfect his craft. From there, he opened Ray Johnson's Pro Shop, which he owned and operated for 55 years. The Pro Shop started at Ken Nottke Bowl, moved to Springlake Lanes and then to M66 Bowl where he stayed for 20+ years.
Ray was inducted into the Battle Creek Bowling Hall of Fame in 1989 and joined the Professional Bowlers Association in the 1970's and then again in 1996. He won 1 National Title and 5 Regional Titles. He shot 80 "300" games and 27 "800" series.
His hobbies included flying radio-controlled airplanes and corvettes.
He is survived by his wife Kelli (LeBarre) Johnson, sister Terri Johnson, brother Jim Johnson, sons Brian (Erin) Johnson and Jeremy Johnson. His beloved grandchildren David, Paige, Sydney, Levi, Richard (Ricky) and Sean.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Ray Johnson and Caroline Johnson and sister Cheryl (Johnson) Payne.
While there will be no funeral service, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Battle Creek Youth Bowling Association (located at M66 Bowl) or the Kalamazoo Youth Bowling Association (payable to Greater Kalamazoo Bowling Association).
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800 www.baxterfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Gary Dean
January 20, 2026
sorry to hear of the passing of Ray. I worked with Ray in the late 60's and 70's at nottkes. what a good guy and a great bowler.
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Sandra (Humes) Parks
January 16, 2026
Sorry to hear of Ray's passing. We went to school together at Northwestern Jr High and BCCHS. Rembering him on the bowling lanes, he made it look so easy. RIP!!
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