Ray VanKirk

Raymond John VanKirk, 84, of Landrum passed away on April 12, 2026 with his children by his side.

Ray was born July 21, 1941 to Raymond and Margaret (Peggy) VanKirk in Detroit, Michigan. The “front nine” of Ray’s life was spent in Michigan with his parents and siblings. Ray was, among other things, a golfer, an entrepreneur who owned numerous businesses, a pilot, a farmer, as well as a proud Veteran of the United States Navy. Ray began the “back nine” of his life in 1992 when he moved to South Carolina to begin a new career selling real estate at The Cliffs at Glassy. Upon retirement, he registered and now owns patents in both the manufacturing and golf industries.

Ray is survived by his children Jill Negus (Jon Levy) and Michael Raymond Stone (Shea); grandchildren Rae Anne Negus-Bell (Brett) and Ellie Stone; great grandchildren Korbin Negus and Oaklyn Bell; sisters Mary Lou Diehl, Maureen Steenwyk (Ed), Marcia Gustavson (Bob); sister-in-law Linda Van Kirk; brother-in-law Tom Driscoll; several extended family members, friends and golf buddies, who he truly cherished.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife and best friend Zelda Rosti-VanKirk; his parents; a son, Raymond; granddaughter Alissa Negus; brother, Ron VanKirk; and sister Mindy Driscoll.

At present, there will be no funeral services per Ray’s request. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

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