Denise Raymond

Denise Marie Raymond, 72, of Traverse City, died on February 21, 2025. She was born on May 16, 1952, to Leonard and Helen Grauman (Cowell) in Detroit, Michigan.

She grew up in Ferndale, Michigan and graduated High School in Royal Oak, class of 1970. In her adult years she moved away from Michigan for a period of time but ultimately returned and moved to Traverse City where she spent the rest of her loving life. Denise was a pharmacy technician for over 20 years.

Denise had many hobbies, some including, but not limited to: baking, gardening, needlepointing, crocheting, drawing, pine scented candles, playing King’s Corners (and winning, of course!), sitting on her porch with her family and get togethers with good food. Denise was an avid reader; she loved good books and watching documentaries, as well as keeping up on current events.

Out of all her hobbies though, her most favorite was being “Grandma D”. This was a nickname given to her by those who knew her and loved her dearly. Wednesdays became her favorite day of the week. She called it “Chicago Night” and would spend hours enjoying her shows with her neighbors, which quickly became family.

Being a caring and selfless person had made her a philanthropist at heart. She gave most of her wealth to charities like American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Doctor’s Without Borders, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Feed the Children, and many others.

She fought cancer for over 12 years but never stopped being a loyal loving mom, grandma, and friend. Mom was a jokester at heart and if you were to ever ask her how old she was, she would never miss a beat to tell you “I’m 23”. I miss you and I love you, mom.

She is survived by her son, Kevin Raymond; grand-children, Elliott, Colton, and Lani; siblings, Marlene, Chris, and Richard; and daughter-in-law, Danielle.

She is preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Laura Raymond; step-father, Noel Karmer; and sisters, Nellie Anne Fortner (Grauman), and Dorothy Grauman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Father Fred Foundation or your local humane society.

The family will spread Denise’s ashes to rest at her favorite place, Whitefish Point overlooking Lake Superior on a beautiful, sunny day.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.