Ralph A. Layman

Ralph A. Layman, 78 of Indian River, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, March 16, 2018 at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey.

Born on November 15, 1939 in Cheboygan, Ralph was the son of Elwin and Velma (DeLoy) Layman.  He was a lifelong Cheboygan County resident.

On December 14, 1957, Ralph married Joyce A. Mearing in Elida, Ohio where he was working for a time.  From 1958-1964 he served in the Michigan National Guard before returning to Indian River.

Ralph worked many years as a truck driver for Cheboygan Cement Products retiring in 2001.  Spending time together with his family came first for Ralph and he was also an avid hunter and fisherman.

He is survived by Joyce, his wife of 60 years; his children, Terri (Butch Swinehart) Layman of Indian River, Dan (Shelley Heussner) Layman of Ypsilanti and Kristi (Mitchell Carter) Chevalier of Indian River; grandchildren, Casey (Heather) Nutt of Afton, Jeannie (Kirk Maves) Nutt of Afton, Emily (Dustin Johnson) Layman of Cheboygan, Brandi (Noah Bunker) Bennett of Indian River, Tyler Bennett of Indian River and Zackrey Chavalier of Indian River; many step grandchildren, great grandchildren and step great grandchildren.  Also surviving is a brother, Ron (Peggy) Layman of Indian River and sisters, Norma (Larry) Goddard and Barbara Brasseur both of Wolverine; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elwin and Velma Layman; a grandson, Aaron Ray Nutt; a brother, Robert Layman; a brother-in-law, Leonard Brasseur; a nephew, Dennis Ostwald and many aunts and uncles.

A memorial gathering is planned for this summer.  Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com