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Former City Manager of Houghton Ray Kestner has died at the age of 91. Kestner was Houghton’s city manager for much of 28 years with the city before retiring after 1996. Before becoming the city manager, Kestner was the director of the Houghton Public Works Department. Many in the area may recognize Kestner for his work to help revitalize the city’s historic downtown and waterfront shoreline. City Councilor Robert Mcgowen recalled Kestner’s dedication to the city’s employees and residents.
“And he always took care of his guys. He was big on taking care of the guys in public works, the fire department, and police officers, and taking care of the people of Houghton. The residents. He was always looking to take care of people, and had big shoulders.” – Robert Mcgowen, Councilor, City of Houghton
In 1955 Kestner graduated from Michigan Technological University with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. While at Michigan Tech he was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers local student chapter, acted as vice president of the Varsity Club, was a fraternal member of Kappa Delta Psi, and was a four-year letter winner in Varsity Hockey. During his lifetime he earned recognition from the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce as Person of the Year in 1982, and Copper Country Man of the Year in 1984. During the decade he also received Michigan Tech’s Distinguished Service Award in 1988 and the Rotary Community Service Award in 1989.
Kestner passed away last week in Grand Haven, Michigan. Kestner’s memory in Houghton can be found in the vitality and feeling of walking through downtown Houghton. He is also honored in the city as the namesake for Kestner Waterfront Park along the Portage Canal. Find a link to Ray Kestner’s obituary for those interested in sharing memories of the former city manager with his family.
Those interested in sharing memories of Ray Kestner with his family can find his obituary here.
Read more about Ray kestner on Michigan Tech’s website here.
