Of Chelsea, Michigan, age 93, died peacefully Monday, March 14, 2022 at his home surrounded by family. He was born December 12, 1928 in Grafton, North Dakota, the son of Anton J. & Lillian (Peterka) Lutovsky.
Ray was employed as a Vehicle Test Supervisor at Chrysler Proving Grounds from 1953-1984. He earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of North Dakota. Ray served in the US Air Force as a ground equipment maintenance officer from 1951-53 (during the Korean War), attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. He was primarily based in Japan, Okinawa, and Guam. He was a member of the American Legion in Chelsea, and was proud to walk in the Memorial Day parades. Ray was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church. He enjoyed yardwork and growing roses, and was known for walking many miles around Chelsea. He liked hanging out at Thompson's Pizza. Ray was known for his sharp intellect and quick wit, especially after enjoying an occasional glass of scotch. He & Rosemary wintered in Sarasota, Florida for many years.
On October 8, 1955, he married Rosemary A. Lyons in Chelsea, and she preceded him in death on Aug. 7, 2010. He is survived by a son, Richard (Jessica) of Pinckney; two daughters, Teri (Douglas) Shiels of Adrian, Joan Lutovsky of Gregory; 3 grandchildren, Danielle (Mitchel) Schilling, Christopher (Rani) Shiels, & Brenton (Amber) Shiels; and 6 great-grandchildren, Anabelle, Norah, Audrey, Avery, Tristan Emma; many nieces and nephews; and life-long friend and brother-in-law Don Doll, sisters-in-law Della and Theresa. He was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Marcell, Leonard, and Luke; a sister, Judy Carrico Reeve; and his parents.
The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, March 18, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.
The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8 with the Rosary service at 8 pm and at the church Friday from 10-11 am. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, Arbor Hospice, or St. Louis Center.
Click here to watch the video of Ray's funeral mass
Click here to watch Ray's slideshow (photos of his life)
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