Raymond Flaska

MAPLE CITY — Raymond J. Flaska, 88, of Maple City, passed away Friday, July 29, 2011, at his home surrounded by family. Raymond was born Sept. 5, 1922, in Maple City, to the late Delbert A. and Tillie (King) Flaska. Raymond will be remembered for his amazing work ethic; he was the right-hand man for Flaska Construction. He was always proud of the jobs they completed. Raymond was a great storyteller of the past. He could give details that made you feel like you were right there. Raymond had the ability to talk for hours on everything and anything. Because of this, he had many dear friends. In the evening Raymond would meet for coffee with friends to share the day's events at the Maple City Short Stop. He also spent many hours sitting on his porch watching the birds on his many homemade bird feeders. The Annual Old Settlers Picnic in Burdickville was one of Raymond's favorite events to attend. He always stayed to the very end to make sure no corn went to waste. Fishing for lake trout with friends on Big Glen and Crystal Lake was one of Raymond's favorite activities. Hunting for deer was also something he enjoyed. Raymond grew up spending time in the orchards picking sweet cherries, and he still loved eating the sweet cherries his entire life. Raymond was a neat guy and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Surviving Raymond are his siblings, Gladys Newman, Glen Flaska and Charlie Flaska; nieces and nephews, Nancy (Jack) Sette, Don Karns, Ron (Reva) Newman, Betty (Ray) Warnes, Scott (Joann) Flaska, Jerry Flaska, Bruce Flaska, Kathi (Rob) Thoreson, Mark Flaska, Lisa (R.) Ericksen and Robert (Joannie) Flaska; and many great-nieces, nephews and cousins. Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Gene, Edward and Irene; brother-in-law, Bob Newman; nephew, Robert Newman; and niece, Laurie Flaska. A graveside service at Cleveland Township Cemetery will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2011, at 3 p.m., with visitation from 2:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Leelanau Land Conservancy. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.