Raymond Francis Jewell

Raymond Frances Jewell, born June 3, 1946, in Cheboygan, Michigan, entered the world at just 4 pounds 8 ounces — small in size but destined for a life of remarkable grit, humor, and craftsmanship. He passed away peacefully surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy built with his own hands and carried in the hearts of all who knew him.

Ray grew up working alongside his family at the Jewell Grocery Store and later with his grandfather Oliver Jewell at Jewell’s Painting. These early years shaped his lifelong identity as a man who could fix, build, or repair anything under the sun. His work ethic carried him through a wide range of jobs from stone masonry on Bois Blanc Island to 18 years with Snokist Tree Company. As a Marine Construction Contractor, Ray spent several years as a mechanical engineer on tugboats and heavy equipment operator building ocean breakwalls and other projects. Throughout his life, he also worked closely with his brother Chuck on various construction projects. Ray eventually retired after 26 dedicated years as the manager of Huron Estates.

On December 28, 1968, Ray married Donna Heilman, and together they welcomed three children: Gerald (1969), Steve (1971), and Lisa (1972). His family was his greatest pride, and he shared with them his love of the outdoors, his humor, and his endless ability to tinker and create.

Ray’s world revolved around his family. Though known for his grit, his children, grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren brought out his softer side. He was not a man of many words; instead, he led through moments spent side by side, hands busy teaching life lessons over the clatter of tools or a shared mischievous grin. Across three, and sometimes four, generations, Ray, Irene, and Lisa built a home where love was lived, not just spoken. Beyond his handiwork, Ray passed down a way of moving through the world; with confidence, humor, and quiet steady strength. His legacy lives on in his family’s laughter and the resilient way they face their own challenges.

An avid outdoorsman, he spent many seasons deer hunting with his sons and grandsons, building memories that became part of the family’s story. He owned the Family Jewells boat and fished in countless tournaments with them as well, creating moments on the water that will be cherished for generations. Ray built their family home on Gilpin Rd., which remains in the family, and later crafted an immaculate cabin in the Upper Peninsula with the help of his grandson Chansey — both lasting symbols of his craftsmanship and independence. And though he could build just about anything, his trucks never seemed to share his good fortune; they were forever dented, dusty, or breaking down, much to the amusement of everyone who knew him. In his later years, he took special pride in his 33‑acre fruit tree orchard, “Mullet Creek Tree Farm & Orchard,” where he spent his final seasons hunting, tending the land, and enjoying the creek with family. He loved hunting, fishing, and every moment spent outdoors.

In his later years, Ray found companionship, love, laughter, and unwavering care with his partner Loretta, who remained by his side until his final days.

Ray will be remembered not only for his hands that could build anything, but for the strength that built him. He was a spitfire — tough as they come — and he met every challenge in his life head‑on. He fought hard, he fought often, and he won more battles than most men ever face. His resilience, humor, and unwavering determination will remain an enduring part of his legacy. Ray passed peacefully on May 7, 2026, at McLaren Hospital in Petoskey, MI held in the love of his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Ray was survived by his brother Charles (Cheryl) Jewell, Marilyn (Charles) Turvin, children Gerald (Paula) Jewell, Steven (Shelly) Jewell, Lisa (Joe) Beach, grandchildren: Joseph Jewell, Chansey (Katie) Jewell, Shania (Kyle) Jewell, Lauren Jewell, Edward Jewell, Hanalei Jewell, Hailia Jewell, step-grand children Tara Beach, Joey Beach, Great Grand Children Avery and Kasen Jewell, Ellie and Rhen Ostwald and by his loving partner Loretta Thompson.

He was preceded in death by his Grandparents Frances and Belle Provo, and Oliver and Lillian Jewell, Mother and Father, Gerald and Irene (Provo) Jewell, brothers Richard and James Jewell, and numerous aunts and uncles.

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