Raymond Lira Guzman

Raymond Lira Guzman was born on February 25, 1946, in Sabinal, Texas, and moved with his family to southeast Michigan a few years after. He lived a life that was rich in love, laughter, and the warmth of family until his passing on February 9, 2026, in Toledo, Ohio. Ray leaves behind a legacy that will forever echo in the hearts of his loved ones.

Ray was a devoted father to his three children, David Guzman and his wife Caroline, Eric Guzman, and Erin Guzman alongside her husband Neil Pechette. His life revolved around the joy and pride he took in being a father and a grandfather. He cherished his grandchildren, Sybil and Arlo Guzman, Landon, Lucy, and Elliot Pechette, and always found joy in their accomplishments and their presences in his life.

A graduate of Erie Mason High School in Erie, Michigan, Ray went on to serve his country with pride in the United States Army during the Vietnam era, stationed in Germany. His joyful attitude was evident in every role he embraced, including his long career at General Mills in the Packaging Department. Known for his kindness and generosity, Ray had a unique ability to bring humor and light into every interaction. His quick wit and warm demeanor won the hearts of many, making friends wherever he went.

Ray was a passionate Michigan Wolverines fan and Detroit Tigers fan, as well as a fan of professional "rassling," an interest his dad shared with him. He was also a movie buff, especially enjoying science fiction and comedy films, and took his kids often to see the newest releases. His fascination with the unknown brought out an interest in UFOs, Bigfoot, and other unsolved mysteries. Additionally, he was talented with electronics and problem-solving, and he always had the latest camcorder or camera, documenting precious family moments through photography and filming.

Ray took great pride in his accomplishments, particularly his role as a loving father and grandfather. He delighted in watching his children grow and thrive, and he cherished every moment spent at his Lakehouse on Portage Lake, where he enjoyed time with family on his pontoon boat. His love for animals was equally profound, with his beloved puppies, Hunter and Ophelia, and his kitties, Tasha, Lucy, and Arpeggio, bringing him endless joy.

Ray is survived by his brothers Al Guzman and his wife Diane, John Guzman and his wife Dora, his sister Maggie Miller, his sister Cindy Guzman, and his former wife Ellen Barger, and David, Eric and Erin's brother Anthony Barger. He is predeceased by his beloved mother Luz "Lira" Guzman, father Juan Guzman, brothers Manuel "Rod" Rodriguez, Joe Louis Guzman, Felix Guzman, Manuela "Nela" Rodriguez, and sister Jesusita "Susie" Castro, as well as sister Anastacia "Annie" Davila.

The memories of Ray’s laughter, kindness, and love will be forever etched in the hearts of his children and grandchildren, who remember him fondly as a man always eager to take them out to eat or share a goofy joke. In a world where light can sometimes dim, Ray Lira Guzman shone brightly, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy that will not be forgotten.