Raymond D. Berends, age 75 of Fremont, formerly of Grant, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at the Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids with his family at his side.  Ray was born on March 9, 1949 in Kentwood, Michigan to Lester and Altha (Richards) Berends.  Ray married Deborah Ferguson on July 3, 2003 in Grant and Ray has been a longtime resident of the Grant area.  Ray had been a printer for Oliver Products in Grand Rapids for 41 years until his retirement and enjoyed playing euchre, camping, and raising Shitzu dogs which he referred to as "his kids".  Ray had been active in Grant Township for many years and served as Deputy Clerk in Grant Township and had served as sexton at Hillside Cemetery for 10 years.

Ray is survived by his wife, Deborah of Fremont; his children, Tanya Renee (John) Locke of Fremont; Cheryl (Dan) Robinson of Grant; Billie Jo (Chuck Smith) Berends of Newaygo; Gerry Lee (Jane) Deater of Grant; Tracy Monroe Deater of Newaygo; Trevor Bryce (Katie) Deater of Grant; 14 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; his brothers and sister, Doug (Nola) Berends; Charlene (Jerry) Rogers; Duane (Nancy) Berends; Marv (Deb) Berends; several nieces and nephews.  Ray was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Cheri Berends; his sister and brother-in-law, Kathlyn and Ed DeGroot.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICES : Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Northland Church of Christ 9891 Mason Drive Grant MI 49327 with Pastor Mike S. Libby presiding with a time of fellowship to follow.  VISITATION will be held from 10-11 am at the church.  MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS : Harbor Humane Society 14345 Bagley Street West Olive MI 49460 in memory of Ray.  Friends may send a condolence or share a memory with the Berends family online at www.crandellfh.com.  Arrangements by Crandell Funeral Home – Fremont Chapel.  231-924-0800