Obituary of John Latray

John David Latray was born in Monroe, Michigan on February 8, 1957. He was one of two boys born from the union of the late Marcus F. Latray and the late Dominica "Dee" (Popov) Latray. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroe. John attended Monroe Schools and graduated from their high school in 1975. John worked for more than thirty-four years at Detroit Edison's Monroe Power Plant. He was a Maintenance Journeyman Millwright. John was a member of Utility Workers of America Local 223. He was a longtime member of the Monroe Boat Club. John loved boating, fishing, mechanical work, and woodworking. He was very talented with his hands and he had recently restored his 1939, 34 foot Richardson Cabin Cruiser. The cruiser was a cherished possession that had been in the Latray Family since 1958. John David Latray age 55 a lifelong Monroe area resident passed away on Saturday, August 18, 2012 at Magnumcare of Monroe, where he had been under the care of hospice since August 15. John previously had been hospitalized at University of Michigan Hospital for several weeks. His passing was preceded by his parents. To cherish his memory John leaves a son: Mitch Latray of Monroe; two daughters: Olivia Latray of Monroe and Rebecca Kolinski of Curtice, Ohio; a beloved brother: Frederick "Rick" Latray of Monroe; and two grandchildren: Alyssa and Berlyn Kolinski of Curtice. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held in the Chapel at Trinity Lutheran Church, 323 Scott Street. A light meal will follow for those in attendance. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 has been entrusted with his arrangements. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to a fund that has been established for John's children. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.