Raymond C. “Ray” Anderson, age 80, of 4397 18th Road, Danforth, and formerly of the Rapid River area, died at his home, in Danforth, Sunday January 15, 2006.

Ray was born May 28, 1925, in Menominee, the son of Gustaf and Mabel (Nelson) Anderson.  He was raised in Menominee and attended and graduated from the Menominee High School in 1943.  On January 26, 1949, Ray was drafted into the United States Army, serving during the WWII era.  He was honorably discharged in January of 1950, at which time, Ray moved back to the Delta County area where he gained employment for Michigan Bell.  On June 25, 1950, Ray married the former Wilda Wellman, at the Congregational Church of Rapid River; and together the couple made their home in Danforth where they raised their family.  Ray continued his employment at Michigan Bell retiring in 1976.  In 1987, Ray and Wilda relocated to the Rapid River area.  Ray’s wife Wilda preceded him in death in September of 2004.  Ray continued to reside in Rapid River until his health began to fail eventually moving back to Danforth to be closer to his family. Ray belonged to the Congregational Church of Rapid River and the Telephone Pioneer.  He enjoyed listening to the Radio Bible Class, going to church and reading his Bible.  Ray loved to sing in the Barbershop Quartet and belonged to various church choirs throughout the community.  He will be missed dearly.

Survivors include:

2 Sons:  Donald Anderson of Cornell, MI; Steven Anderson of Marquette, MI

2 Daughters:  Judy (Gary) Calvey of Rapid River, MI; Connie (Anson) Visnaw of Escanaba, MI

1 Sister:  Marjorie (Hugh) Vary of Menominee, MI

Also surviving are 8 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Gustaf and Mabel, his loving wife Wilda and his infant daughter, Jeanne Lynn Anderson.

Family will receive friends on Friday from 1:00PM to 2:00PM at the Congregational Church in Rapid River.  Memorial services celebrating the life of Ray C. Anderson will follow visitation, at 2:00PM, at the Congregational Church, with Pastor William Rafuse officiating.  Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.  Committal will be in the Rapid River Cemetery.