Raymond Kuehl Jr.

Raymond Kuehl Jr. of Kalamazoo, age 86, died on October 7, 2021. Ray was born July 24, 1935 in Kalamazoo to Raymond Sr. and Mildred Kuehl. Fun loving and never one to take life too seriously, Ray made friends anywhere he went. He enjoyed a lifelong career at James River, Inc. in Parchment where he not only worked the swing shift, but he met his wife, Maria. Through a bowling league they got to know each other, dated, and married just 6 months later in Kindleberger Park. Together, the couple enjoyed travelling to Georgia to visit their daughter, Christina, as well as their second home in Bradenton, FL, where many friends awaited their arrival each winter. An avid sports fan, Ray had a unique ability to watch several games at once without missing a beat, especially if his favorite Detroit Tigers were playing. He was also an avid golfer, spending much of his free time at Lake Doster Country Club. Without a doubt, every day was special for Ray and Maria. The pair were simply inseparable and spent each day finding ways to make each other smile. Ray was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Kuehl. Surviving are his wife, Maria; daughter, Christina (Matthew) Longshore; grandson, Colin; Darci Williams and Doug Kuehl; and extended family. Cremation has taken place. Please join us at a funeral service 11 AM Saturday (OCT 16) at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2003 Mt. Olivet Rd., Kalamazoo. Visit Ray's webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, and sign his guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to American Red Cross. Betzler Life Story Funeral Home, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900.