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Ralph W. Payton, age 48, of Marcellus, passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. He was born July 28, 1975, a son to Eddie Payton and Linda Murray.
Ralph resided in Morley, Michigan when he was a teen and graduated from Morley High School. He was in the United States Navy for 11 years, before moving to Marcellus. After the Navy he worked at Parker-Hannifin Aerospace in Kalamazoo for more than 15 years. More recently he worked at Watch Works in Portage. Ralph loved the outdoors. He loved going to the family cabin in Grand Marais and being outside. He loved the University of Michigan, disc golf, antique watches, collecting Pokémon Cards, and retro gaming systems. Ralph was a tinkerer and enjoyed building things with his hands. Ralph also liked spicey Asian inspired food and putting on fireworks shows with family. In the military he adapted some survivalist instincts and was always a goofball, even when things got tough. He loved his children and was so very proud of all of them.
Ralph is survived by his children: Bradlee Payton of West Olive, MI, Tina Payton, and Blake Payton of Marcellus; three grandchildren; Parents: Ed (Kathy) Payton of Big Rapids, and Linda Murray of Portage; Siblings: Penny (William) Myers of Constantine, Sky Payton of Portage, Jamie (Cameron) Beck of Fort Wayne, and Thomas Middlestadt of White Pigeon, Jody (Bob) Zueren of Big Rapids, Micky Payton of Paris, MI and Heath (Tara) Payton of Big Rapids; Good friends Dan and Janice Ludlow of Marcellus; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by grandparents Lloyd and Florence Murray.
In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093, 269-278-1515, has been entrusted with the care of Ralph. Those wishing to make a memorial donation please consider the funeral home for final expenses. Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to Gather and celebrate Ralph’s life.
