Ray Vernon Launstein

Ray V. Launstein of Holland, Iowa, died September 11, 2024. He was born September 22, 1939, in Vevay Township, Michigan, to Alvin R. and Virginia Iona (Keller) Launstein. 

Ray graduated from Williamston High School and Michigan State University, Ag short course. As a small boy, Ray accepted Christ as his personal Savior, and at age 17, he rededicated his life to Christ. In high school he was involved in FFA, winning several awards. After high school, he was involved in Jr. Farm Bureau and was State Chairman, and as such was on the State Farm Bureau Board.

On August 14, 1965, he was united in marriage to Janice R. Sturtevant. This union gave him two sons, of whom he was very proud. 

The family moved from Michigan to Iowa in 1971 buying a farm. Farming was Ray’s life. He was a licensed CDL operator, driving truck for the local Case dealer, as well as Launstein Farms. He served on the local FS board. Ray and Jan attended a few local Baptist churches together throughout their marriage with Ray serving as both a Trustee and Deacon. 

 Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Virginia; his step-mother Lucy (Price) Launstein; and two brothers-in-law, James Allen and James Nester.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years; his two sons and their families, Dale & Amy Launstein, Jaydon (Sadhna), Jordan, and Taylor, and John & Violet Launstein, Luke, Mark and Seth; two great-grandsons, Wade and Walker; brother, Ike (Ann) Launstein of Oregon; sister Barbara Allen; two brothers-in-law, James (Jean) Sturtevant and David (Jacque) Sturtevant; and one sister-in-law, Beth Nester, all of Michigan; as well as several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation and a gathering of friends will be from 5:00pm to 7:00pm on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at Abels Funeral Homes and Cremation – Engelkes Chapel in Grundy Center, Iowa.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday September 18, 2024 at First Baptist Church in Grundy Center, Iowa.

Memorials in Ray’s name can be made to Iowa Regular Baptist Camp.