Fred Kenneth Ray , 91, of Lafayette, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. He was born March 10, 1930 in Corbin, KY to the late Walter and Armenia (Lawson) Ray. After attending Corbin, KY schools, Fred went to work at a very early age in the Kentucky coal mines. He later joined the Army, serving during the Korean War. Through the years, Fred worked as a farmer, carpenter, and machinist.

Among Fred's many passions were fishing, gardening, and woodworking. He took pride in being able to build or make just about anything from scraps of wood. And the fruits of his garden were to share with others. Fred never met a stranger, was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

Surviving are 4 daughters, Sharon (Larry) Krebs; Susan Hawn; Sonya (Mike) Reinhold; and Darlene (Dave) Schleppenbach. He also leaves behind 31 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings include Dean Brovont, Betty Lou Sundqvist, Irene Booth, and Randy Ray. Along with his parents, Fred was preceded in death by siblings Pearl Carr, Ambrose Ray, Otis Ray, Goldie Spurlock, Edgar Ray, Arnold Ray, Cecil Ray and 1 great-grandchild.

A Graveside Memorial Service, with Military Honors, will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Legion Collins-Tasch Post 399, PO Box 133, Monterey, IN 46960.

Shoemaker Funeral Home, Otterbein is assisting the family. Visit www.shoemakerfh.com or Shoemaker Funeral Home-Otterbein, Indiana Facebook page to leave condolences or to share a memory of Fred.