After a courageous battle, it is with heavy hearts that our family announces Ray’s passing on Sunday, April 1, at the age of 65.
Left to mourn is his wife of 42 years, Donna, son Jordon, and daughter, Sarah (Scott) and his four-legged companion, Barley. His siblings, Pierrette (Pierre), Cecile (Rick), Alain (Jocelyne), Norman and Daryl (Kristin), his in-laws Helen and Roger McIntyre, Cindy (Ron), David (Emma), numerous nieces and nephews and extended family. Ray was predeceased by his parents, Leon and Alice Boulet, sister, Lorraine Gervais and niece, Jennifer Fortier.
Ray was born on June 22, 1952, in Killarney, MB, the second oldest of seven children. He was raised on the family farm in Dunrae, MB, and as a teenager moved with his family to Portage la Prairie, MB, where he completed his schooling. After graduation, he moved with friends to Belleville, ON, for a year, to work and play music. Shortly after returning home, he met the love of his life, Donna, when they both joined the same bowling league at Empress Lanes. It wasn’t long before Ray shared his love of square dancing with Donna and she became his permanent dance partner. By the time they started their family, they had relocated to Stonewall, MB, where Ray owned and operated North Country Electric as a Journeyman Electrician for 25 years. His career was his passion and he took great pride in his work. In his latter years, he worked in the same capacity at Thor Electric in Winnipeg until ill health forced him to retire. Though the next few years were difficult, he never gave up his love of gardening and being in nature. He continued to be an avid Jets fan and never missed a game.
Ray was a very playful soul and loved life. He liked to laugh, joke and play little pranks. He was an honest, considerate man and loved to help people. He was a wealth of knowledge and could fix anything and everything. He had a love for music and was always humming and whistling. We will forever remember his indomitable spirit and he will be deeply missed.
Cremation has taken place and at Ray’s request, no formal service will be held. The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Riverview Health Centre for their kind and compassionate care of Ray of the past two months.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray’s memory to Riverview Health Centre Foundation, Victoria’s Quilts Canada, or to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada.
Rest in peace, Dad. We’ll be seeing you.