Kenneth Michael "Mikey" Ray ended his world tour on October 20th, 2016. He was born June 6th, 1943, in Buffalo, NY. He grew up in Western PA and became an accomplished marksman. He graduated as a metallurgical engineer from Carnegie Mellon University. He retired in 1995 after a successful career with General Electric, Apple Computer, and several entrepreneurial ventures. He and his wife Karen have spent the last 10 years of their retirement in Canton, GA.
In addition to his illustrious career, Mike was always in search of a good deal or adventure. His adventures have included Christmas tree farming, piloting small airplanes and hot-air balloons, artistic welding and graphic design. He was a passionate traveler, a seeker of knowledge, and an avid reader. He saw the beauty in the wonders of nature and the history of the world, from battlefields to battleships. He spent his retirement traveling, playing tennis, playing bridge (earning the ranking of Silver Life Master), and living the life of a Parrothead.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents Mae and Robert Ray. He is survived by his wife Karen; brother Gregory Ray of Bethlehem, PA; sons Tim Ray (Judi) of Columbia, SC and Dan Ray of Simpsonville, SC; and daughter Lori Ray Taggart (Andrew) of Simpsonville, SC. Grandpa Mikey enjoyed his rambunctious grandchildren Owen (12) and Harrison (8) Taggart, and Tristin (11) and Tsali (7) Ray. He is also survived by 2 step-children Laura Pruitt (Mark); Joseph Keahey (JoAnn). He also enjoyed spending time with his 5 step-grandchildren, Ryan Pruitt (29), Alex Pruitt (25), Zachary Pruitt (21) Jackson Keahey (15) Jensen Keahey (13) and 1 step-great granddaughter Mackenzie Pruitt (6).
A memorial service will be held at Darby Funeral Home, 480 East Main Street, Canton, Georgia 30114 on Saturday, Oct. 29. Visitation 1pm followed by a memorial service at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tranquility Hospice at Kennesaw Mountain, 475 Dickson Avenue, Marietta, Ga 30064.
The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ray Family.