Raymond J. Stepanski

Raymond J. Stepanski, age 94, of Alpena passed away on July 19, 2022.

Ray, affectionately known as “Ripper”, was born on October 25, 1927, to the late Joseph Sr. and Elizabeth (Romel) Stepanski in Alpena, Michigan.  He joined the United States Army Infantry in 1946 and proudly served as a TEC 4 in Japan. He married Dora Jean Dubey on June 19, 1954, at Saint Anne Catholic Church. He was a member of Saint Mary Catholic Church and served as president of the Usher’s Club for many years. He was a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 529. Those who knew “Ripper” may remember the MANY entertaining stories he would tell about his Polish heritage, growing up on the “West End” of Alpena, military service, bread routes, and crane operation. He worked for Douville Bakery as a baker and driver salesman for over 50 years. As a crane operator, he worked on many projects contributing to Alpena’s growth and development.

A Jack of All Trades, he was well known for his home improvement skills. Anything he repaired or built was meant to last. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to work at his side to pass on these skills. His motto was “Do it right or don’t do it at all”. 

After retiring from Grocers Baking Company, he spent 20 seasons on Mackinac Island restoring historic homes in the Hubbard’s Annex and built many lasting friendships. While on the island, he served the catholic community of Sainte Anne Church. In his “spare time” he enjoyed league bowling and hunting at his friends’ camp, the “Wreck”. 

Ray is survived by four children: Julie (Donald) Bey; Karen (James) Breitschuh; Jane Stepanski; Keith Stepanski; five grandchildren: Daniel Bey, Matthew Bey, Courtney (Charlie) Page, Jillian (Trevor) Collard, Sarah Stepanski; great grandson Max Edward Page; brother Joseph Jr. Stepanski; and sister Theresa Dignan; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Dora Jean in 2011; son Kevin in 2018; sisters Margaret Grambau, Jeanette Stepanski, Alice Brousseau, and Elaine Olson; brothers Clement Stepanski, Thomas Stepanski, and Arthur Stepanski.

Family and friends will gather for visitation on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 10:00 am at St. Mary Church of All Saints Parish of Alpena. Mass of Christian Burial begins at 12:00 noon with Fr. Michael Lingaur officiating followed by military honors accorded him by Alpena VFW Post 2496.

Inurnment: Holy Cross Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to All Saints School