Jack R. Raven

Heaven rejoiced on June 20, 2008 at the homecoming of Jack Raven. Jack was born on August 20, 1930 in Kalamazoo Michigan to Robert and Margaret Raven. By the age of 18, he had lost both parents. He had a tough childhood, but he took the trials and hardships and turned them into lifelong lessons that he used to touch thousands of lives. He proudly served his country for 3 years in the United States Army as a Sergeant First Class. He was the perfect husband to JoAnne Raven for 57 years. Working at Crown Vantage for 38 years, he steadfastly saved and invested his money so they could live in comfort when they retired. Jack retired in 1987 and that goal was carried out. He was the perfect father to Lyle and Marilyn Halladay Raven and Dan and Vickie Raven DeCamp, always giving and sacrificing for their good. He was and still is their hero. He was the perfect Grandfather to 9 grandchildren. Nate and Kate Bambacht DeCamp of Paw Paw; Tim and Rachel Sarkipato DeCamp of Kalamazoo; Ryan and Rebekah Raven Canfield of Kalamazoo; Matt DeCamp of Vicksburg; Sarah Raven of Kalamazoo; Hannah DeCamp of Kalamazoo; Abby DeCamp of Mackinaw City; Naomi and Rachel DeCamp of Vicksburg. Jack invested his life into their lives by teaching them truth, life skills, how to love others, and to respect authority. He was the perfect great grandfather to 8 great grandchildren. Caleb, Aaron and Levi DeCamp; Michael Canfield; Haylie McIntyre; Camryn DeCamp, Kiara DeCamp and Jack Bancroft. Even amidst his busy life, Jack always had time for the great grand kids. Many life lessons were learned at his feet. Jack was a member of Berean Baptist Church of Portage for 30 years where he faithfully ministered. He was a deacon and a small group facilitator, but probably his favorite role was that of a Sunday greeter. He made everyone feel welcome when in his presence. He also ministered to the community. For many years he volunteered at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. He was ministering at three area nursing homes at the time of his home going. He drove for Shepherds and helped at chaplaincy services. Jack loved people. His greatest joy was building and investing into the lives of those he loved, even those he didn't know. He loved to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Jack trusted in the saving grace of Jesus at the age of 52 and from that life changing moment on, his burning desire was to share the wondrous redemption story with everyone. Many are on their way to heaven today because of his obedience to that passion. Jack was proceeded in death by his brothers James and Dick Raven; his sister Virginia Ford and his brother in law Bob Stickel. Jack is survived by his sister Margaret Stickel, brother Robert Raven and brother-in-law Bernard Ford. Jack was loved and respected. He will be greatly missed. Heaven is richer today. The family eagerly awaits their reunion with him in glory. Services will be Tuesday, June 24th, 1:00 at Berean Baptist Church, 7813 S. 12th St., Portage, with family greeting and visiting with friends from 11:30 until 1:00. Committal service will be scheduled and announced, for later this week. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave., Portage. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to Sarah Damick, in care of the Berean Baptist Church, for her preparation to go to the mission field.