Raymond W. Berry

Raymond W. Berry, 82, Buchanan, Michigan passed away at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph, MI on Saturday, August 29, 2009 after a brief illness. Ray was born April 16, 1927 in Cuba City, Wisconsin. Ray was an educator, coach and administrator in the Buchanan Public School System for 33 years. He served as Mayor of the city of Buchanan in the early 1980's and was an active community volunteer. On June 14, 1947 Ray married the former Margaret Ann Brodie in Flint, Michigan who preceded him in death in 2006. He is survived by daughter, Cindy Berry, Buchanan, MI; sons Steve (Barb) Berry of Owosso, MI and Joe (Jackie) Berry of Oviedo, FL; four grandchildren Megan (Chadd) Scarlett of Portage, MI, Molly Berry, Petoskey, MI, Taylor and Trevor Berry, Oviedo, FL; and great granddaughter Piper Scarlett. Ray graduated from Morningside College, Sioux City, Iowa in 1951 with a bachelor degree in education and completed a master's degree from Western Michigan University in 1968. He was a sports enthusiast and dedicated coach who counted his ex-athletes as life long-friends. Ray was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Buchanan and Orchard Hills Country Club. He loved community service and was a dedicated “Meals on Wheels” volunteer. As an active YMCA member his daily morning exercise friends became his second family. He was passionate about his love and pride in his children, grandchildren and great granddaughter. The funeral will be Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Swem Funeral Home, Buchanan. Pastor Pat Ramsden will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Buchanan. Friends and family may call on Tuesday, September 1, 2009 from 3:00-8:00 pm also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to Niles-Buchanan YMCA or the First Presbyterian Church, Buchanan, MI.