Ralph E Barraclough

Ralph E. Barraclough, 79, of Salem, NH, died Friday, Sept. 24, 2021 at High Pointe House in Haverhill.  Ralph was born in Lawrence, son of the late Fred and E. Louise Barraclough, and was a 1960 graduate of Tenney High School in Methuen.  He worked as a computer programmer for Wang Laboratories for many years.  Ralph leaves behind his loving wife Barbara (Bennett) Barraclough, with whom he shared 47 years of marriage. 

Ralph was a member of First Congregational Church of Salem where he served for many years as a trustee, Sunday School teacher, and church officer.  He was an active member of Spicket Lodge, # 85, F & AM of Salem, NH having served as Master three times and as secretary for many years.  He was also a member of the Scottish Rite and was active in the Salem Historical Society where he served as secretary for 14 years.  He especially enjoyed going to breakfast each week with other members of the church retired men’s breakfast group.

In retirement, Ralph and Barbara spent many wonderful days boating on Lake Winnipesaukee as well as taking several cruises.  They also enjoyed square dancing and were members of several local square dance clubs over the years, including Track Town Trotters in Salem, where they met. Ralph enjoyed aviation, computers, making models, boating and swimming, photography, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and foster grandchildren.

Besides his wife Barbara, he is survived by his two sons Jeffrey Barraclough and his wife Cheryl of Methuen, and Timothy Barraclough and his wife Amanda of Gilford, NH.  He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Caleb, Anna, and Nathaniel; his sister Mary Barraclough of Salisbury, MA, and several nieces and nephews.  He was also predeceased by his brother, Fred Arthur Barraclough.  The family wishes to thank the many friends and relatives who provided support and care during the time of Ralph’s illness, especially his niece, Jill Murphy. 

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, September 30, 2021 from 4 to 7 pm at the Dewhirst & Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, with a Masonic service to follow at 7pm. Funeral services will take place on Friday, October 1 at 10am at the First Congregational Church, 15 Lawrence Rd., Salem, NH.  Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in North Salem.  Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church of Salem, NH. To leave an online condolence, please visit Ralph’s tribute page at www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com.

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