Joseph "Ray" Parenteau of Blackstone passed away Friday November 11 surrounded by loved ones after an illness. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Parenteau. He was the beloved father of Cindy and her family, John, Emma, Jack and Brooke Kucich of Franklin and Marc, deceased, and his wife KarKate Parenteau of Somerville. Brother to Paula Lanctot and Phillipe Parenteau also of Blackstone. Ray leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Born on May 26, 1949 in Montreal, Canada, Ray moved to Woonsocket, Rhode Island in 1960 where he became a Rhode Island State Champion roller skater at Joyland. He graduated Woonsocket High School and entered the Air Force in 1968 where he served as a medic. Before enlisting, he met the love of his life, Nancy Goodwin, they married on August 1, 1970 and moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Upon returning to Massachusetts, Ray began college at Framingham State College while working full time and raising their daughter. He graduated with a degree in Communications.
An entrepreneurial spirit, Ray started many businesses from scratch including The Apartment Times, Ad Print of Medway, Real Estate Digest, and, most recently, Click RSVP. But his true love was music. He love all kinds, but especially the blues. Ray made endless friends at local blues shows and enjoyed discovering new artists, particularly at Chan's in Woonsocket. He played in a band, Incoming, for many years and recorded several original songs. His grandchildren have wonderful memories of playing in his home studio with him when they were little. And more recently, Emma would duet with him. Grampa on guitar, Emma on the flute.
Ray was a friend to all. His unique sense of humor and fun loving spirit brought life to any gathering. He was gracious and kind and will be terribly missed by those who knew him.
There will be a church service at 12:00pm on Saturday, November 19 at St.Mary's Church in Franklin followed by a luncheon at The Coachman's Lodge in Bellingham. A private internment will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation or Gilly's House of Wrentham.
The Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. is honored to assist the Parenteau family. Guestbook www.oterifuneralhome.com