Obituary of Kathleen Sue (Greko) Ray

Ray, Kathleen “Kathy” (Greko)

Saginaw Twp., Michigan

Our courageous, caring, fun loving wife, mother, sister, aunt and dear friend passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, May 14, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. Kathy was 70 years old. Kathleen Sue Greko was born on April 8, 1951 in Saginaw, MI to the late Edward Andrew and Leona G. (DeJournett) Greko. She attended Arthur Hill High School, graduating in 1969. Kathy furthered her education at Delta College, while serving as a co-op at St. Mary's Hospital. While she was at Delta, Kathy met her husband, R. Michael Ray, and they were married on April 28, 1972 in Merrill. Together they lived in Saginaw and raised their son, Eric Michael Ray. Kathy loved spending time with Eric, her parents, and family members at the family cottage. As a devoted mother, Kathy was a Den mother for Eric's Cub Scout pack, along with her longtime friend Gail Baron. She also encouraged him throughout Boy Scouts to receive his Eagle Scout rank. Kathy loved working at St. Mary's Hospital. Though out her 35 year career, she worked in scheduling as a Ward Clerk at the downtown location and eventually at St. Mary's Ambulatory Care Center, in which she formed long lasting friendships with the doctors and fellow colleagues. For those who knew Kathy, they knew about her love for Christmas, as it was a very special time for her to be with family and loved ones. She always made sure that everyone was well fed, and that everyone had that special gift for the occasion. Her generous nature made her a natural gift giver, and her love for cooking made sure that no one ever left hungry. Kathy was the backbone and a rock to her family, as she lovingly cared for her parents, especially her mother, Leona, in her later years. They always loved making many trips to visit with the DeJournett family in Southern Illinois, where Leona was born. It was a reunion like no other when they visited the many family members, who would get together every time they were there. Kathy enjoyed summers at the family cottage on Crooked Lake, where she spent time floating in the lake, antiquing, making memories with family and friends, and definitely cooking big, delicious meals for everyone. In addition to being at the cottage, she loved to travel with Mike, whether it was the cruises they went on, or a peaceful ride up north to places like Traverse City, which is where they spent their honeymoon.

Kathy’s loving, caring and fighting spirit will be deeply missed by her husband, Mike Ray; son, Eric Ray; sister, Marcia Greko; brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Michelle Greko; in-laws: Robin Patrick and Nancy Ray, and Leslie and Jeff Shields; nieces and nephews: Ami Greko and David Greko, Tonia Louchart and Terry Ray, Christina Beckman, Cody Ray; Aunt Barb and Uncle Ronald Wilson; and the extended Greko and DeJournett families.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Karl David Greko.

In addition to the family members, Kathy will be missed by her many friends. Especially some of her closest friends, Gail Baron, Linda and Bill Ward, Barb McNeil, and Barb Powers. Kathy loved her bingo and card club girlfriends, and just hanging out with her gal pals.

A very special thanks and appreciation from the family to the medical staffs at Henry Ford Hospital. Especially to the liver transplant team, who in 2011, successfully extended Kathy's time with us when she had a lifesaving liver transplant. In addition to Henry Ford, they would like to acknowledge St Mary's Ascension, Dr. Kinachtchouk (family doctor), and all who were involved with helping Kathy over the last year of her time with us.

From Kathy's husband Mike, a very special appreciation and thanks is being given to Kathy's homecare nurse, Soli Gayton, whose professionalism and genuine care for Kathy over the past year was a great comfort through such a difficult time.

FUNERAL: A funeral liturgy for Kathy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021 at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River Road, Saginaw, MI 48609. Rev. Fr. Peter Gaspeny will officiate with burial to follow at St. Andrew Cemetery.

VISITATION: Family and friends are welcome to gather at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Kathleen will lie in state at church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In keeping with mandated ordinances, social distancing will be observed and limits on attendance enforced.

MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Mustard Seed Shelter of Saginaw or Gift of Life Michigan Organ and Tissue Donation. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church of through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com