Raymond Alfred Bekins

09/28/1950 - 08/11/2025

Raymond Alfred Bekins, age 74 of Cedar Springs, MI passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, in the comfort of home surrounded by his family. He was born on September 28, 1950, in Grand Rapids, MI and was the son of Elmer and Madeline (Scheidel) Bekins.

Ray was loved by many: friends, family, work colleagues and hunting buddies alike. A lifelong Cedar Springs resident, Ray's life revolved around hard work, perseverance, and most importantly his family. Ray, the son of a butcher, followed in his father's footsteps before working in manufacturing for several decades prior to retirement. Ray's work didn't define him. It allowed him the time and resources to be a provider to his family, unknowingly teach life lessons, and to ultimately do the things he enjoyed in life.

Ray's priority was his wife and children, and this often included coming to their rescue. He was a self-proclaimed Mr. Handyman. He always helped to fix anything even if sometimes he didn't know what he was doing! He was always present at his kid's sporting events, family vacations, and most importantly taught us all discipline and hard work. We were lucky to have Ray as a father and will be forever grateful for the life lessons and support.

Ray's biggest supporter and lifelong love was Diane who was by his side until the end. Ray and Diane created countless memories over the years, and they were the perfect pair. Hunting and fishing were Ray's favorite hobbies (the local deer population is probably breathing a sigh of relief!), but a close second was searching for the ultimate bargain at a garage sale. Ray and Diane were professional bargain hunters and spent decades enjoying this hobby together.

Ray's sarcasm, quick wit, and willingness to give and help without expecting anything in return will forever be missed. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Interim Hospice for the loving care they gave to Ray.

Surviving is his wife, Diane; children, Ryan (Lana) Bekins, Courtney (Roy) Ferguson; grandchildren, Jayden, Saylor, Nautica, Piper Ferguson; brothers, Dan (Anna), Todd (Erica), Alfred Bekins; sisters, Betty (Floyd) Calkins, Alice (Brian) Hayward, Sue Allen, Sally (Joe) Sagorski; mother-in-law, Florence Antor; in-laws, Gordon (Sharon) Cook, Roger (Janie) Kopenski, Doug (Sue) Stein, Denny (Liz) Antor, Ted (Jackie) Doorenbos.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 11:00 am Tuesday, August 26 at St. John Paul II Catholic Church, 3110 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. The family will greet friends at the luncheon following Mass. Rev. Fr. Lam Le, Celebrant. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Pl., Memphis, TN 38105, Interim Hospice, 1971 E. Beltline NE Ste 216 Grand Rapids, MI 49525, or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.