Raymond G. Hare, 89, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. He was born on March 26, 1936, in Reed City, the son of Edward and Mary Ann (Herring) Hare.

Ray graduated from Reed City High School, Class of 1955, and began his career with Michigan Bell. On April 27, 1959, he was united in marriage to Sue Nix at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Reed City. She preceded him in death in 2007.

Ray was drafted into the United States Army, proudly serving his country for two years before returning to Michigan Bell, where he dedicated 38 years of service, retiring in 1993. During retirement, Ray continued to stay active and found joy working for Patterson’s Flowers for ten years.

Ray loved the outdoors—especially hunting, fishing, and camping. He and Sue traveled throughout Michigan and cherished the time they spent together. Ray was a good man, a loyal friend, and someone who would do anything for the people he cared about.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Holly Gerber, Debbie Rolston, Susan Hare, Butch Hare, Doug Hare, Kylene Nix-Bookwalter, and Matthew Nix; along with numerous extended family members and friends. He is also survived by dear friends Jim and Carolyn Chipman, Loretta Shoemaker, Alvin Eastlund, and Jerry Wright.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sue Hare; brothers, Selden Hare, Gilbert Hare, and Arthur Hare; sisters, Wilma Lundburg and Velma Linderman; and close friends, Lavina McKay and Joe Hamilton.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes, Big Rapids, with visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M. until the time of service. He will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery, Reed City. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Reed City.

The family would like to acknowledge a special thanks to Kristina Holmes and the staff at the Reed City Fields Assisted Living facility.

To leave a condolence or share a memory, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.