Obituary for Martin James Reay

Martin James Reay, of Portland, Michigan, was born a resident of Old Mission, Michigan, to Matthew and Marian (Zoulek) Reay, on October, 20, 1948. He died on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Marty attend elementary school in Old Mission then went on to graduate in 1966 from St. Francis High School in Traverse City. Growing up in Old Mission gave Marty a love for the simple things in life, something he strived to pass along to his family.

Marty was a fisherman and the only thing he loved more than fishing was his family, which included everyone he met. He also loved listening to music and dancing and shared that passion with his family.

Marty married Connie, the love of his life, in 1975. They settled in Portland, Michigan, where they created a “family” out of their friends and raised their children. Later in life Marty found great joy in being Papa to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Marty owned several businesses throughout his life. He especially loved dealing in antiques, which he continued to do into his retirement years. Never fully retiring, he also continued his involvement with Mid Michigan Expediting, a business he took great pride in, which he established and operated with his son, Matt.

Marty leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. His humor and “Martyisms” will be greatly missed.

Marty was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Matthew “Brud” Reay, sister, Maxine Johnson, father-in-law and mother-in-law Gabe and Martha Pincelli and infant son, Michael John.

Marty is survived by his wife, Connie Reay and his children, David (Stephanie) Reay, Kelly (Tom) Herron, Justin (Jeanie) Cline, Martha (Tom) Heniser, Matthew (Melissa) Reay and Christopher (Sarah) Reay and his sister, Marilyn (Donald) Smith. Also left to treasure his memory are his grandchildren, Nathan (Brea) Patrick, Jamie (David Bell) Reay, Chance (Kenadee) Hoppes, Jeffrey (Allyson) Reay, Krista (Brian Brunson) Reay, Tommy (Kati) Herron, Shelby Herron, Chloe (Ian Talbot) Hutula, Graeme (Kristin) Harris, Rilee (Kyle Lawless) Harris, Delaena (Anthony) Harley, NaTanya Cline, Cody Heniser, Maddie Heniser, Isabelle Meeker, Tony Meeker, Maddey Painter, Jarrod Painter, Brantley Reay, Hadley Reay, Alexa Patino, Elouise Reay and Gabriel Reay and his great grand children, Liam, Wyatt, Jade, Jacob, Jordyn, Paxton, Kruz, Karsyn, Cayden, AJ and Sophia. Finally, he will be remembered by many in laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and special friends who he considered family.

The Funeral Service honoring Marty will be officiated by Deacon Charles Thelen at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 20, 2023 at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge Street, Portland. The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at the funeral chapel from 4-7 p.m. and again on Monday prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. The rosary will be prayed on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.