Raymond John Bedtelyon

Raymond John Bedtelyon, age 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in his beloved hometown of West Branch, Michigan. Born on April 12, 1940, Ray’s life was a testament to steadfast dedication, faith, and an enduring spirit of service.

Ray’s early years saw him embracing the hard work and rhythm of rural life, beginning as a farmhand—a foundation that connected him deeply to the land and to family traditions. His career journey led him to General Motors, where he served with distinction at the Grey Iron Plant in Saginaw and the Nodular Iron Foundry before returning to retire from the Grey Iron Plant. Beyond his day job, Ray fervently participated in his community. As a proud member of the Pioneer Powers, he took great joy in driving his Farmall C tractor in local parades, a symbol of his lifelong passion for agriculture and preservation of history. His devotion extended to volunteering at the Ogemaw County Fair's Antique Village, a role that allowed him to share and celebrate the stories of the past.

Faith was the cornerstone of Ray’s existence. As president of Holiness Campground for 25 years, he nurtured a spiritual haven for countless individuals. His pastoral care flourished on weekends when he faithfully filled in for congregations across small towns including Melita, Standish, West Branch, Prescott, Fraser, Onaway, Black River, and Roscommon. Ray’s heart for mission was boundless; his trips to Russia were marked not only by sharing the gospel but also by tearing pages from his Bible to give to orphans forbidden to possess their own scriptures—a poignant testament to his compassion and courage. Tirelessly, he collected shoes and clothing to fill suitcases for those in dire need. His weekends, his work, and his very being radiated a generous love for humanity.

Outside of his spiritual and community commitments, Ray found joy in simple pleasures. He loved fishing, hunting, and playing cards, always cherishing moments spent with family and friends. These hobbies painted a fuller picture of a man who valued connection, tranquility, and the beauty of the natural world.

Ray leaves behind a loving family who carried his legacy forward. He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Jean, and their children: Raymond (Lola) Bedtelyon, Mark (Teresa) Bedtelyon, Pam (Doug) Gesink, and Sherri Brown. His grandchildren—Isaiah, Ricky, Jake, Candi (Brad), Valerie (Adam), Zack (Cassey), Deanna, Michael, Raymond, Samii, Malak, Dunia, Josiah, Jessica K, Joshua, Chandra, and Jessica N., his great grandchildren, Audrey, Emily, Trey, Tessa, Ty, Isaiah, Levi, Titus, Aurora, Orian, Kylor, Corvin, Bella, Lilli, Alicia, Payton, Avery, Mia, Oliver, Eleanor, Josiah, Micah, Elijah, Ashton, Nora, Andrew, Daniel, Randy, Cameron, and Drake were close to his heart, each a cherished part of his extended family tapestry. Sisters-in-law Rosemary Bedtelyon, Gayle Bedtelyon, and Carole Marsh also remain as part of those who carry fond memories of Ray’s warmth and kindness.

Ray was preceded in death by his loving parents, Era and Lanettie (Coon) Bedtelyon; his first wife, Carol Bedtelyon; his daughter, Myrna Ismail; grandsons, Kareem Ismail and Michael Burge; and brothers, Jay and Dean Bedtelyon. Their memories, though dearly missed, live on in the hearts of all who knew Ray.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch, MI. Additional visitation will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Ogemaw Hills Free Methodist Church in West Branch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m.

Burial will be at Campbell Corners Cemetery in West Branch on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Though he has departed this world, his spirit and the light he shared remain everlasting.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com