Charles "Ray" R. Poole's Obituary
Charles R. Poole (Ray Poole), age 89, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on March 17, 1936 in Muskegon to Charles H. and Hattie (Payne) Poole.
Ray honorably served his country as a career member of the United States Navy, completing three tours during the Vietnam War. Before enlisting, he spent three years in the National Guard. He went on to dedicate 24 years as a Hospital Navy Corpsman, retiring in May of 1977. Ray was a Life Member of VFW Post #446 in Muskegon, where he also held the office of State Quartermaster. He was also a member of the Fleet Reserve, Marine Corps League and various military organizations.
He enjoyed playing golf and fast-pitch softball during his Navy years, and later treasured traveling to Branson with his wife. Ray especially loved supporting his grandson at sporting events and took great pride in watching him continue on to play football at Adrian College.
On April 9, 1962, Ray married the former Michiko Okuno at the U.S. Consulate in Yokohama, Japan. Together, they shared 63 years of marriage filled with love and devotion.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Harbor Hospice, his nurse Mandy, and Interim Healthcare and his caregivers, Zack and Cindy for the comfort and care they provided to our beloved husband and father.
SURVIVORS include his wife, Michiko; daughter Rae Marie (Charlie) Poole-Hoover; grandson, Matthew Hoover; and sister, Beryldene Hobohm. Ray was preceded in death by his parents; still born son, Raymond Henry Poole; and sister, Donna Santora. A Celebration of Life for Ray will be 11 AM Thursday, September 18, 2025 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St. Norton Shore, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100.
VISITATION with the family will be an hour prior to the service, from 10-11 AM. Burial will take place at Sunrise Memorial Gardens. Memorial Contributions in Charles name to Harbor Hospice or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation (https://t2t.org/donate/) will be appreciated. Share memories with the family online at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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