Raymond H. Alworden, age 75, of 9131 Bay Shore Drive, Gladstone (Kipling location) died Friday evening May 5, 2006 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba. Raymond was born February 20, 1931 in Gladstone the son of Clyde and Mary (Lancrete) Alworden. He was raised in Gladstone and was a 1949 graduate of the Gladstone High School. While at Gladstone High he participated in football and basketball. Following graduation Ray worked for the Northwestern Veneer Plywood Plant from 1949 to 1952. From 1952 to 1954 Raymond served in the U.S. Army where he was stationed at Fort Sheridan, IL. Ray was united in marriage to the former Rosalie Brock on August 13, 1955 at the All Saints Church in Gladstone. They made their home in Kipling where they raised their three children. Ray had worked for the Mead Paper Company in Escanaba from 1954 until his retirement in 1993. Ray was a member of the All Saints Church in Gladstone, K of C’s, Gladstone Yacht Club, Gladstone Golf Club, Mead Rod & Gun Club and the Mead 25 Year Club.

Ray was an avid Detroit Lions fan and his hobbies included golfing, hunting and spending time at his camp. He especially enjoyed visiting with his family and friends.

In addition to his wife Rosalie, survivors include: 1 Son: Terry (Kim) Alworden of Gladstone

2 Daughters: Patti (Pete) Stropich of Rapid River; Debbie Edwardsen of Gladstone

1 Brother: John (Pat) Alworden of Gladstone

6 Grandchildren: Jessica (Ryan) St. John of Kaukauna, WI, Rachel Alworden of Kalamazoo, Joe Stropich of Rapid River, Brandon Alworden of Gladstone, Jenae and Ashley Edwardsen of Gladstone, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Raymond’s family will receive friends on Wednesday from 3:00 P.M. to 5:30 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home Gladstone. Mass of Christian Burial Services will follow at 6:00 P.M. at the All Saints Church in Gladstone with Rev. Fr. Arnold Grambow officiating. A luncheon will follow services in the church parish hall. Burial will be in Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone.