LEWISTON — Raymond R. Cloutier Sr. passed away at his home on July 7, after a long illness.

Ray was born on May 20, 1937, in Lisbon. He left high school to help support his family, eventually joining the Navy in 1954. He was aboard the U.S.S. Coral Sea and served in the Korean War. After leaving the Navy in 1958, Ray began a 41 year career at Bath Iron Works. He retired in 1999. During these years, he worked the pipe shop, served as the Union President and as the National Representative for the AFL-CIO. In these capacities he was one of the best.

Ray was involved in many human rights issues, including playing a major role in eliminating asbestos in the workplace. After leaving BIW, he worked for seven years as a greeter at Walmart in Auburn before finally entering a well-deserved retirement in 2006.

In the late 1950s, Ray was scouted by the Boston Red Sox while playing for Kruger Beer. Unfortunately, he was not signed by the Red Sox, but remained a loyal fan of the team all his life, rarely missing a game.

On Aug. 27, 1960, Ray married the love of his life, Suzanne Quirrion. Together they had two sons, Ray Jr. and Alan. Ray’s passions in life included spending time with his family, fishing and watching games of his favorite New England sports teams. During the summer, he often spent weekends at his sister’s camp in Jackman enjoying fishing.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters: brother, Maurice and wife, Janet Cloutier, sister, Connie and husband, Richard St. Amand, brother, Louis (Bobby) and wife, Diane Cloutier, sister, Rachel and husband, Leo Cloutier and sister, Muriel; sister-in-law, Louisa Quirrion; his two sons, Ray Jr. and Alan; seven grandchildren, Misti, Amber, David, Ryan, Shannon, Shoshanna-Skye and Barry-Cooper; and two great-grandchildren, Madalyn and Jacoby.

Ray was predeceased by his parents, Emilien and Laura; his brother, Ronald; and his wife, Suzanne.

Ray will be dearly missed, especially his sense of humor, laughter and story telling. Although we all know how happy he is to be reunited with his wife and loved ones passed.

The family would like to extend our sincere appreciation and thanks to Meddy and Sue Perry, Ray’s neighbors, for kindly checking in on him from time to time and helping him with maintaining his home; he thought so highly of you. The family also gives a special thank-you to Misti Rae for all her love and dedication to her Pepere.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Cloutier family by visiting their guestbook at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.