Ray 'Doug' Wirta

FLINT, Mich. - Ray "Doug" Wirta passed peacefully on Friday, July 26, 2024, surrounded by family.

A memorial service was held on July 31 at O'Guinn Family Funeral Home in Clio with Donald O'Guinn officiating.

Doug was born Aug. 12, 1948, in Ironwood to Sulo and Miriam Wirta. He married Elaine Buning on June 8, 1968, and they have three daughters, along with eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Doug retired from General Motors after 36 and one-half years of service. He was a proud Vietnam veteran, having served in the U.S. Army, and loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his siblings, Judy Mayer, Joyce (Ivan) Robbins and Dale (Mary) Wirta; daughters, Deb Strong, Sheila (Jim) Church and Hope (Nick) Garrett; grandchildren, Hailee (Mike) Knapp, Crystian Strong, Camryn Church, Ali (Josh) Church, Breana Church, Alivia Garrett and Colton Garrett; and great-grandchildren, Jake Knapp, Julius Strong, Carter Strong and Jaxon Taylor.

Doug was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine, his parents, two brothers and a grandson.

Internment was at the Great Lakes National Cemetery on Oct. 4, where Doug was laid to rest along with his wife, Elaine.