Ralph “Rock” Ray, Jr., 85, passed away Monday, April 23, 2018.

Born in Tipton, he was the son of the late Ralph Sr. and Edna Ray. Rock Ray graduated from Portland High School, and then served our country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Ball State University and was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

He began his career at General Motors in Muncie. In 2001, he retired from Liberty Homes of Goshen, after 33 years. He was a member of Sunrise Church, and was an active participant in the church’s long-time support of Operation Christmas Child – Samaritan’s Purse.

He enjoyed spending time on the beach (an appreciation he acquired while stationed on Midway Island), summers in Northern Michigan, and traveling with his wife and longtime friends. He had a particular passion and skill for playing practical jokes on his children and grandchildren. Above all else, he loved being with his family.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Sandra Ray, Fort Wayne; children: David (Sarah) Mahorney, Ulysses, Kan.; Elizabeth (Jay) Reynolds, Lafayette; Michael (Amy) Ray; Bryan (Kathy) Ray both, Fort Wayne; Becky (Tim) Warton, Broomfield, Colo.; Amy (Jeff) Hodgson, Syracuse; 27 grandchildren (aka “Turkeys”); and 11 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tara, and brothers, John and Richard.

A private graveside service will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park, with Rev. Scott Pattison officiating. A celebration of life memorial gathering will be held at a later date, details to be announced. Memorials may be made to the Sonrise Church and Campus Ministry at IPFW. D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home is handling arrangements.