Raymond Albert Govaere

Ray was born to Dorothy and Albert Govaere on October 21, 1955, in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Ray had an infectious laugh that made everyone in the room aware of his presence. He was a very talented mechanic and could fix anything on a vehicle. He had a great personality and could make people feel very comfortable.

Ray was a dedicated provider and made sure that his family was always taken care of. Although Ray was not the most affectionate person he loved his children very much and would do anything for them.

Ray started his career in Michigan washing cars at a dealership and went to school to become an auto mechanic. He moved to Virginia and worked at Ourisman Group where he ran the service department. This is where he got his love for boating. He lived on a houseboat while in Virginia and enjoyed taking friends and family out for weekend cruises. While in Virginia he got his pilot’s license and recreationally flew planes for many years. Ray had an adventurous personality, and this is what made him the man he was.

After his years at Ourisman he returned to Michigan and became the service manager at Kuhn Sales and Service in St. Clair, Michigan. He worked there for many years and became a trusted adviser to not only the mechanics but also many customers. He was very trustworthy, and this made customers feel comfortable. Some customers would drive long distances just to get their car serviced at Kuhns because they knew Ray would take care of them.

Ray then opened his own Garage, Pondview Enterprises in Adair, Michigan. He was so proud of this business and became friends with all that lived in the surrounding areas. On any given day after the garage would close you could fine friends and family sharing a beer or two or more sitting laughing and sharing stories. This was Ray, he could make friends anywhere he was. After many years at Pondview he sold the business, bought a trawler in Florida and settled in Marathon. He was back where he loved to be, on the water living on a boat. He had many side mechanic jobs in Marathon to keep busy.

After almost 10 years he decided to move back to Michigan to be closer to his family. He lived the rest of his life in Marine City with his cats Mel and Larry.

Ray is survived by his two older brothers Larry (Linda), Don (Bonnie), brother-in-law Gerard Desveoux and a younger sister Diane (Mike). Children Michael (Lynne) Matthew, and Amanda (Hiscly). Grandchildren Margo, Malcolm, Declan, and Riley along with many cousins, nieces and nephews along with many very good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Tari Desveoux.

There will be no service but will be a Celebration of life in the future where we will all toast Ray with some Stroh’s Beer.