Raymond J. Valentovich's Obituary
Raymond J. Valentovich, age 89, of Grand Haven passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025, at home.
For 67 years, the most wonderful, blessed and beloved husband of Shirley Valentovich of Robinson Township. The most amazing and cherished father of his 5 children and their spouses, Jim (Debbie) Valentovich, Liz (the late John) Shepard, Corinne Chengary, Denise (Dan) Knezevic, and John Valentovich. Beloved grandfather of 10 and great-grandpa (Papa) to 11. Beloved son of the late Gregory and Sophie Valentovich of Chicago, brother to the late Bernie Valentovich and the late Eleanor (Marty) Gyura.
Former parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua (Robinson Twp) and St Luke’s in Allendale, and current parishioner of St. Patrick - St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven. Ray was well loved by all the friends he made at these parishes and will be greatly missed. He was a member of the Grand Haven Eagles Aerie # 925.
Born and raised on the East Side neighborhood of Chicago’s far south side, Ray retired in 1993 after working 39 years at General Mills in Chicago. While he taught his children the love of sports, he also taught many young boys as a coach for the local little league baseball team, the Cardinals. Ray was an avid gardener, planting immeasurable and varied numbers of flowers and trees. His home was his little slice of heaven here on earth and he loved just being home amongst his plantings, woods and fields, walking his trail through his property.
His entire life, Ray was an avid fisherman, taking countless trips to Canada and Minnesota, both with friends or his beloved “bride”. Ray had a great love of the outdoors, appreciating all that nature had to offer, a trait he passed on to his children. He explored many National Parks from east to west coast and was even a Florida snowbird for 10 years.
Ray was loved by all who met him. A gentle, kind and humble man, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends and all who had the great pleasure of meeting him.
Best Husband EVER. Best Dad EVER.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. Patrick Church of St. Patrick – St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven with Rev. Dan Schumaker as celebrant. Friends may meet the family from 4 – 7 p.m. on Friday, June 13, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will be in Robinson Township Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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