Raymond Henry "Ray" Mann, Passed away Wednesday afternoon, July 17, 2024 at his home after a short but courageous battle with leukemia. Ray was born on November 30, 1946 in Elkhart, to the late Wyman and Marjorie (O'Conner) Mann. In addition to his parents, a brother David Mann preceded him in death.

Ray was introduced to a beautiful young lady, Julie Ellen (Koebler) by her brother while he was in the Army, they knew each other for 8 months and married May 13, 1967, two weeks before Ray was leaving for Vietnam. He proudly served from 1967 until his honorable discharge in 1969.

Ray was a lifelong resident of Elkhart. Early in his life, he enjoyed fishing in the local rivers and taking family vacations to Minnesota.

Ray worked in the printing trade for 54 years. He started as a small press operator and from there he was involved in every aspect of the printing trade. He was in printing sales for over 35 years. He liked helping clients and educating them in the printing trade.

In his spare time, Ray volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry. He was involved with Sons of St. Joseph and sang in the St. Thomas Choir for over 40 years. Ray was also a member of Schola Men's Group and Altar Care Ministry at St. Thomas Catholic Church.

Ray is survived by the love of his life and wife of 57 years, Julie Mann, along with his children, Lisa Ward, Kelly (Dwight) Luna and Jeffrey (Chris) Mann; grandchildren, Kennedy Ward, Madison Ward, Cassidy Ward, Kelsey Paul and Rees Paul; as well as two brothers, Garon "Gary" (Ann) Mann and Dennis (Kathy) Mann.

Family was everything to him. He took great care of his wife, kids and grandchildren, making sure they had everything they needed. Ray was passionate about the people most important to him. He loved people without hesitation and with unabashed affection. He was generous and would not hesitate to help where he could.

Ray made friends wherever he went and was genuinely interested in getting to know them. He had the best laugh and regularly cracked himself up with his own jokes!

Most of all, Ray is the embodiment of a gentleman and a gentle man with a caring nature. He had a positive outlook on life even when times were challenging.

As Ray would enjoy the moments we have in life, whether it was big or small.  He believed you should never pass up the chance to tell someone you love them."

Visitation with family and friends will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 from 5:00 P.M to 7:00 P.M. at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. Elkhart, with a Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 P.M.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation 1 hour prior at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1405 N. Main St. Elkhart. Rev. Logan Parrish will officiate. Immediately following the mass, the United States Army Funeral Honor Guard and the EVHG (Elkhart Veterans Honor Guard) will render military honors, right outside the church entrance. In honoring Ray's wishes, Cremation was chosen, with interment at a later date at Rice Cemetery, Elkhart. Ray's family kindly request memorial donations to the St. Vincent de Paul Society Food Pantry, 1108 S. Main St., Elkhart, IN 46516

Condolences may be made online to Ray's family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com

St. Vincent de Paul Society Food Pantry
1108 S. Main St., Elkhart IN 46516