Raymond Lalonde

Raymond Charles Lalonde Jr., a long-time resident of Sterling Heights, MI, passed away on August 20th, 2025, at the age of 90. He was born on February 14th, 1935, in St Ignace, MI to Raymond Charles Lalonde Sr. and Beulah Elizabeth Lalonde. At 19 years of age, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving two years of active duty. In the summer of 1957, he married Janice Ann Good. Together, they bought their first home in Utica, MI and began raising their family. Ray was a skilled machine repairman who worked for James Steel & Tube Co. for the majority of his career, finishing with BorgWarner before retirement. Ray was known for being a true "Mr. Fix It." Family, friends, and even friends of friends would often give him a call seeking his expertise with needed car, appliance, and home repairs. He always seemed to have someone's car in his driveway that he was working on. Family even recollected how they were woken up early in the morning by a sound of someone in their garage only to find out it was Ray wanting to make sure their generator was up and ready for a storm coming in later that day. He would always immediately prioritize helping others with anything within his expertise and ability. He was very physically active and enjoyed running and strength training. In his free time, he loved playing cards and participating in golfing and bowling leagues up until his passing. He also stayed connected with his former BorgWarner coworkers, attending bi-monthly retiree gatherings. Ray was very sensitive to the needs and feelings of those around him. Whether it was a friend, family member, or total stranger, he saw the best in people and always had a kind word to say. He lived his daily life exhibiting gentleness, humility, and respect. Especially during his time in the military, he stood apart from many of his generation, rejecting prejudice and treating everyone he met with dignity and respect. He had the ability to make others feel valued no matter their present situation or past circumstances. Ray was a devoted husband to Jay, and together they raised three children: Deborah, Cheryl, and Raymond III. Family meant everything to Ray. He was always present at both casual weekly gatherings and important life events. He was deeply loved and respected by his eight grandchildren: Megan, Amy, Christine, David, Ashley, Beth Ann, Will, and Danielle. He was actively involved in their lives and witnessed many graduations, weddings, and notable life milestones. Ray even lived to be a part of his seven great-grandchildrens' lives: Zoey, Zelda, Leo, Luna, Savannah, Bane and Titus. He was affectionately known to them as "Big Papa." His family does not have words to express the depth of the impact that Ray had on their lives, nor of the void that his passing will leave behind. His family considers themselves remarkably blessed for every moment they were able to share with Ray. He will be extraordinarily missed. Ray's family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 3:00 p.m until 8:00 p.m. at the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Road (3 blocks East of Van Dyke), Utica. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, August 26, from 10:30 a.m. until the time of his service at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A private entombment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Township. Please share a story or leave a tribute at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Raymond Lalonde

February 14, 1935 - August 19, 2025