Raymond "Ray" Kiehler

Raymond "Ray" Kiehler, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished brother, passed away on August 5, 2023, at the age of 85. His beloved wife, Connie Kiehler, unexpectedly joined him in the embrace of eternity just two days later on August 7, 2023, at the age of 75. Their enduring love story, spanning 52 years of marriage, remains an inspiration to all who were touched by their bond. As a mother and father, Connie and Ray's heart overflowed with love for their son, Steven (Alaida) Kiehler. Their joy multiplied when they became proud grandparents to Nicholette and Nolan. Ray was born on March 5, 1938, and his journey through life was marked by unwavering love, boundless kindness, and a passion for nature that touched the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy is eternally intertwined with the love he shared with Connie, whose presence added richness and depth to his life. Connie was a kindred spirit to Ray, and their love story began with a blind date that ignited a flame that burned bright for over half a century. A passionate and avid book collector, Connie's love for reading was a defining aspect of her character. She found solace and joy in the written word, exploring diverse worlds within the pages of her cherished books. A true nature enthusiast, Connie's heart was drawn to the wonders of the natural world. She found peace in watching owls glide through the night, marveled at the majesty of bears in their habitats, and was captivated by the vibrant beauty of birds, with a special fondness for cardinals. Her connection to nature was a source of serenity and inspiration throughout her life. As a member of Paperback Swap, Connie's passion for literature extended to sharing her treasured books with others, fostering connections through a shared love of reading. Her generosity and love for storytelling endeared her to those who had the privilege of knowing her. Ray and Connie's profound love for each other was a guiding light in their lives. Their shared interests, unwavering support and the deep bond they nurtured were a testament to the enduring power of love. A visitation to celebrate the lives of Raymond "Ray" Kiehler and Connie Kiehler will take place on Friday (August 11th) at the Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Home 8459 Hall Rd. (3Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica, from 4pm - 8pm. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday (August 12th) at 11am at the funeral home. The family kindly requests that donations be made to the National Audubon Society in honor of Ray and Connie's shared passions and legacies. Though they have left this earthly realm, Raymond "Ray" Kiehler and Connie Kiehler's love story and individual spirits will forever live on in the hearts of those they touched. Their memory will be cherished, and their love will continue to inspire generations to come.

Raymond "Ray" Kiehler

March 5, 1938 - August 5, 2023