Raymond Allen “Ray” Thrams, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died peacefully on July 14, 2026, at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis, Michigan. He was born on June 11, 1946, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and an enduring commitment to family and community.

Ray was a proud graduate of Colon High School, class of 1965. Following graduation, he demonstrated an industrious spirit early on, working as a seed salesman for Willie Miller and as a farm hand for Kevin Miller. His lifelong work ethic found its home at General Motors in Kalamazoo, where he contributed for 32 years before retiring in 1999. During his tenure, he was a loyal member of Local 488, embodying the values of camaraderie and integrity within the workplace.

On February 6, 1966, Ray married Connie L. Sprowl at the Colon United Methodist Church. Their union was the cornerstone of a close-knit family whose bonds were strengthened by Ray’s steadfast devotion and love.

A man of many interests, Ray enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for many years, pitching horseshoes, and spending memorable hours on the golf course. His community spirit was evident when he founded Colon Rocket Football in 1974, an initiative that gave local youth opportunities to learn and grow through sport. An avid outdoorsman, he especially cherished time spent ice fishing, making memories that will live on in the hearts of those who shared these moments with him.

Family was always at the center of Ray’s life. He was unwaveringly supportive, taking special joy in watching his children and grandchildren play sports of all kinds. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Thrams; his son Jeff Thrams and daughter-in-law Sheila; his daughter Jennie Schuman and son-in-law Chip; and his grandchildren Evan Thrams and Alicia, Bailey Skahen and Gabe, Courtney Franco and Diego, Connor Schuman and Janelle, great grandchildren Mia, Adalyn, Kennedy, and Ruby. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Landess.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Ina Thrams; his sister, Mary Lou Thoms; and his brother, Jerry Thrams. Though he has passed, his influence endures through the many lives he touched and the family that remains devoted to preserving his memory and legacy.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be announced at a later date. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them at that time in honoring the memory of a man who gave so much to those around him, both in word and deed.