Raymond “Ray” John Sheahan of Grand Rapids, MI passed away surrounded by loved ones August 28, 2026 at the age of 76. He was born October 13, 1949 in Toledo, Ohio to Raymond and Nora (Longmore) Sheahan. Ray attended Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio, where he met the love of his life Cynthia (Cindy), and graduated in 1967. In 1973 Ray and Cindy were married, welcomed their son Randy in 1976, and four years later their daughter, Rhonda.

Ray attended University of Toledo obtaining his degree in criminal justice, while working as a state trooper in Ohio. He was hired by CSX Railroad as a claims investigator in 1979, moved his family to Grand Rapids in 1982, and worked in that capacity for over 30 years.

Ray loved family fiercely, a quality which could be seen and admired by anyone who knew him. Ray spent many summer weekends at a multigenerational family cottage on Posey Lake in Hudson, Michigan, surrounded by immediate and extended family. Always warm and welcoming with a quick joke or smile, Ray could put anyone at ease. His family loved his outgoing personality and quirkiness. He always made the lake a fun place to be with his quick wit.

The light of Ray’s life in later years were his grandchildren, Alexis and Lauren Sheahan. He showed up for every event whether it was basketball, volleyball, dance, or musicals. His family knew he would be there watching and cheering them on from the stands.

Ray was very active in the hockey community in Grand Rapids. You could always find him at a rink refereeing a hockey game or playing in beer leagues. In his younger years he donated much of his time to teaching kids how to play hockey, and as his children grew older, he helped teach the next generation how to be great referees, especially his son.

Ray was a music lover and accomplished drummer, playing in local bands in his early 20’s, and again later in retired life.

In Ray’s later years he volunteered at Immaculate Heart of Mary and Ronald McDonald House working in the garden. He also enjoyed volunteering his time for Community Rebuilders, an organization which helps veterans in the community.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia (Adam) Sheahan of 53 years, his son Randy (Heather) Sheahan and daughter Rhonda Sheahan, his grandchildren Alexis and Lauren Sheahan, his siblings Kathleen (Larry) Lagger and Pat (Susie) Sheahan, and his brother-in-law Greg (Kathy) Adam, along with countless nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donations can be made in Ray’s name to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization near and dear to his heart.

Family will be honored to receive visitors on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 6pm-8pm at Ofield Funeral Home. The following day, Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 10am, there is a mass service at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Grand Rapids, MI with the Very Reverend Father Troy Nevins presiding.