Ray J. Irons

Ray J. Irons, 93, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

He was born on October 17, 1932, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Ray J. Irons, Sr. and Ruby (Wilde) Irons.

Ray dedicated many years of his life to his work as an electrician with Local 531 IBEW, where he was proud of his craft and the friendships he made along the way.

On June 15, 1985, Ray married the love of his life, Joanne Walker, who survives. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Jim (Kathleen) Irons of Michigan City; and his nieces and nephews, Carla (Mitch) Marhanka, Mark (Sarah) Irons, Matthew (Andrea) Irons; six great nieces and nephews and six great great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Doris (Norman) (Irons) Bowers; and his niece, Penny Bowers.

Ray honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He was a longtime member of the Local 531 retirees club. Ray and Joanne shared a love for travel and were fortunate to visit nearly all 50 states together. In his retirement, Ray found great joy in woodworking and wood carving, talents that reflected his patience, creativity, and attention to detail. He also volunteered at his church.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at La Porte First United Methodist Church, 1225 Michigan Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

Family and friends may gather at the church one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow at Door Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the La Porte First United Methodist Church.

To light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for Ray’s family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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