Ray Virgil Lutes, 95, of Traverse City and Sun City AZ, passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 in the arms of his daughter in Traverse City.

Ray was born on May 31, 1922 in Bowman, ND to the late Harry and Violet (Anderson) Lutes. He married Beatrice Hemmah and together they had 8 children. After his marriage ended with Beatrice he went on to marry Patricia Cruiser who also preceded in him death.

Ray was a rancher and farmer for most of his adult life until he retired at 55. He retired to Arizona in 1979 and currently was spending his summers in Traverse City. He loved his family and really enjoyed spending time with them.

Surviving Ray are his children, Dale (Diane) Lutes of Williston ND, Donna (Rick) Smith of Traverse City, MI Valerie (Dave) Hendges of Traverse City, MI Leon (Cindy) Lutes of Bowman, ND and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, wives, son Darrell Lutes, daughter Beverly Smith and three infant children.

A prayer service will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at 1pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a visitation beginning at noon. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one's choice. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.