LACONIA ---- Ralph G Brunelle, known affectionately as “Sonny”, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at the age of 87, at Granite VNA Hospice House with his family surrounding him.
Born on July 3, 1937, in Laconia, NH, he was the son of the late Alice Pelchat and Raymond Brunelle. Ralph was a cherished member of the Lakeport community, where he lived his entire life, attending Laconia High School and graduating in 1954.
Ralph’s professional life was characterized by a meticulous dedication to his craft, respectful machinist, service at NHBB and Baron Machine Co. for 22+ years before his well-deserved retirement.
In 1958 Ralph married the love of his life, Jerri Tufts, and together they built a family filled with love and laughter. He was a devoted father to Ruby Dow, Ernest and Kenneth Brunelle.
His legacy continued to grow with the joy of his 5 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandson.
Ralph’s hobbies reflected his love for life. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, boating, snowmobiling and riding his motorcycle. He was a 47-year member of the Lodge of Elks, in addition to being a member of SAL of the American Legion. His quick wit and talent for making people laugh made him a pleasure to be with, and his volunteer work at the Leavitt Park Community Club showed his generous spirit.
Ralph’s grilling skills, particularly his grilled chicken with homemade barbeque sauce, were legendary, especially during the summer gathering at he and his family’s residence on Paugus Bay.
Ralph also cherished the time he spent making lifelong memories with his close group of friends, which he considered more like family.
Predeceased by his parents, his son Ernie, and his sisters Helen and Laraine. Ralph’s memory will be honored by his surviving family, his children, grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephew, and treasured cousin, Ray Boissoneau.
In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate to Children’s Youth Program, Post #1 American Legion, 849 N. Main St., Laconia, NH 03246.
A service to celebrate Ralph’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at First United Methodist Church located at 18 Wesley Way, Gilford, NH at 11:00 am.
Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Garfield Street, Laconia, NH where Ralph will be laid to rest.
A reception will be held at Lodge of Elks located at 17 Sugarbush Lane, Gilford, NH where family and friends can share memories and comfort each other.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.