RAYMOND ALPHONSE DUCHARME

Condolences & Memories (5 entries)

• While my mom Yvonne and Ray never made it official, he always treated my sister and I like his own children. Ray brought light to our lives during a very dark time for my family, with his insatiable need to bring happiness to people. Ray was generous with my boys, especially his little buddy Logan, and most generous with his time. He was always a shoulder for me to cry on, a strong person to vent to, and the man I always leaned on (even when it made him uncomfortable). Ray offered me guidance, encouragement, and helped me to find my voice in this world. He took great pleasure in hearing me speak my mind, and going forward I'll always hear his "Ha!" after every brutally honest comment I make. I remember when my mom and Ray first started dating, I was in 11th grade. I heard a bunch of kids talking about a police presence at our high school, and eventually the rumour mill found out it was for me. So I went outside (with a growing audience, of course), and there was Ray, leaning against his cruiser with his Crest Whitestrip smile. He put me in the back of the cruiser and drive me home lol. I had to do some damage control after that one. Then there was the time Erika and I convinced him to take us for a ride in his police cruiser, Of course it wasn't an ordinary ride around the block, he took us off roading at the floodway! How he dealt with 3 shrieking teenaged girls is beyond me. But I'm thankful for the memory. Ray was my moms best friend, the love of her life, and a beacon of hope for my family. He showed us the good in the world, helping anyone and everyone he could, and connecting us to friends and family that we will cherish forever. I always told him if I ever got married, he'd be the man to walk me down the aisle. He truly took on the role as father, and friend. He was my son Logans favourite Grandpa to spend time with, always telling me we needed to go visit Grandpa Ray more, Ray, I will do my best to keep your memory and legacy alive. I will encourage Logan to be generous, and follow in your footsteps. He's already told me that we will keep you in our hearts. Thank you for always being there, and I know my world will never be the same without you. Love you. - Posted by: Natasha (Family) on: Jun 25, 2016

• I met Ray about 10 years ago through work, our desks were close and he was easy to talk to so it didn't take long to become friends. Ray was a true gentleman, he was always kind and ready to help anyone. When I was doing siding on my garage Ray came out to help and brought his sons and their families with him. Ray was proud of all of his kids and loved his grandchildren dearly. After Ray left our office a few of us would sometimes get together with him which wasn't always an easy task. When Ray got his dog it was even harder to get him to go out as he didn't want to leave "the little one" home alone. I am glad that I got to know Ray and honoured to be his friend. Deepest condolences to Ray's friends and family. Rest in peace Ray. - Posted by: Bonnie Stark (friend) on: Jun 23, 2016

• Ray..I am so fortunate to have been engaged to you and even after we ended our engagement we remained so very close. Our bond became even stronger! You were my best friend and I know I was yours. My life will never be the same without you. I miss you so much already and I feel so lost without you. You played such a huge part in Natasha and Samantha's life they loved you like a father. I'm glad Logan got to spend so much time with you and get to know you. Those memories we will make sure to keep alive. I'm so lucky to have been loved by you. I will try and stay upbeat.. That's what you loved about me. Rest in peace my beautiful Ray xo - Posted by: Yvonne St. Laurent () on: Jun 22, 2016

• I taught Ray years ago. His son Ray Jr. was a student at Archwood School when I was its principal. I found Ray to be decent and honest. I am saddened to hear of his passing at such a relatively young age. Joe Segal - Posted by: Joe Segal (former teacher of Ray) on: Jun 22, 2016

• I knew Raymond, George and Sandy growing up in our teen years in the 70's. I remember Ray as as a nice, generous person always willing to help anyone in need. To the family, our heartfelt condolences. - Posted by: Joel and Judi Fournier St Albert, Ab. (Childhood aquaintance) on: Jun 22, 2016