Patrick Bray

Pat was born on December 8th, 1962, the sixth child, to James and Mary Bray of Hancock, Michigan. Pat attended school in Sault Sainte Marie. As a child, Pat enjoyed playing baseball, basketball and football in school. He was an avid hunter, learning from his father at a young age how to respect and appreciate nature. Being in the woods was his happy place.

After graduation from high school in 1980, Pat attended Lake Superior State University then transferred to Central Michigan University. While at CMU he worked on the paper, CM Life, where he made several life-long friends. Pat graduated with a BS in Political Science and Journalism from CMU then went on to work as a journalist for a newspaper in West Branch, Michigan.

Pat had a passion for helping those in need and so chose to pursue a Master’s Degree at Michigan State University in Fund Development and Public Relations, honing his skills working for Radio Talking Book while attending MSU. After graduation he enjoyed working as the Development Director for the Family Service Association, The Nature Conservancy and for several hospitals in Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Pat began working for The Trillium House in Marquette in 2015, helping to make a long awaited Hospice facility into a reality.

Pat was an avid history buff, master of trivia, skilled joke teller and always ready to lend an empathetic ear or a comforting hug.

When not in the woods hiking or hunting, he enjoyed spending time with friends and family. He knew his way around the kitchen and enjoyed trying new recipes and entertaining whenever possible.

Pat is survived by his 6 siblings: Mike (Meta) Bray, Carol (Duane) Davis, Patt (Mike) Smith, Peggy Bray, Jim (Ramona) Bray and Bridgette (Tim) Moher, Pat was the father to 4 daughters: Samantha, Madeline, Jessica and Gabrielle. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and his loving beagle friend, Autumn.

Friends may call at Canale Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services on Saturday December 11th, 2021 from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm, for A Celebration of Pat’s Life.

Due to the ongoing challenge of the Covid pandemic, masks are required. Pat’s services will be live streamed at: https://my.gather.app/re member/patrick-bray.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Trillium House, 1144 Northland Drive, Marquette, MI 49855 or to a scholarship fund to be established for Pat’s daughters.

Pat’s obituary can also be viewed at canalefuneral.com, where relatives and friends may leave a remembrance or note of sympathy.