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Obituary for Gregory Raft
G. Gregory Raft, a 20 year resident of Brighton, passed away unexpectedly while in the care of his family and the wonderful staff of the Ann Arbor VA Hospital, on December 8, 2014 at the age of 85.
Born October 22, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan, Greg was one of three children born to parents Clara (Engelhardt) and George Raft.
Greg served his country proudly in the U.S. Army where he earned the rank of Sargent.
Greg earned a Bachelor�s Degree in business from Central Michigan University before making his career first as a salesman, and soon thereafter, an entrepreneur. He worked with both geothermal heating systems as well as security systems.
Greg was blessed by the births of his three daughters Pamela, Lisa and Jill and was glad to see his family grow to include sons-in-law and, most especially, his grand and great-grandchildren.
Greg was married to Ruth, the love of his life for 34 years. They made their homes together both in Ann Arbor and later Brighton.
Greg was well-known for his active participation in the Brighton Optimist Club, Brighton Senior Men�s Club, as well as his church, and many others.
In addition to Ruth, his beloved wife of 34 years, Greg is survived by his sister Dr. Marguerite Shearer; daughters Pamela Marie Batcho, Lisa Raft Douglas, and Jill (Paul) Christian, step-children, Catherine (Dick) Sanders, Gregory (Kerry) Delahant; grandchildren, Eric, Annie, Kyle, Lauren, Jenna, Michael, David, Zachary, Jack and Monica; great-grandchildren Hannah, Liam, Cora, Drew and Ryan, as well as extended family and a host of dear friends.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents, brother Byron (Norma) Raft and brother-in-law Dr. Marshall Shearer.
Greg is best remembered for his quick wit, love for his country and his knack of never knowing a stranger.
A Memorial Service will be held from First Presbyterian Church of Brighton, 300 E. Grand River, Brighton on Friday, December 12th at 11 AM. The Rev. Dan Michalek to officiate. Friends may gather at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, 600 E. Main St., Brighton on Thursday from 4-8 PM. Interment of ashes and honors will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery on Monday at 10 AM.
Memorials encouraged to: Brighton Optimist Club, for the scholarship fund, or to Gleaner�s Community Food Bank.
For further information, please phone Lynch & Sons, Brighton at 810-229-2905.
