Raymond A. Proulx

Raymond A. Proulx, lifelong Methuen resident born April 15, 1922, who celebrated his 100th birthday in April 2022, died with dignity, peacefully and quickly September 8, 2022 at Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA. Ray and his family lived in Methuen in the home that he designed and built in the early ‘60s. He was able to enjoy living there until he was 99 years old, when he moved to the Bedford VA in June 2021 to join his comrades. Born to the late John Proulx and Elvina Fournier he was predeceased in 2019 by his wife, Ethel, of 67 years.

Shortly after the US entered WWII in 1942 Ray left high school to enlist in the Navy and served as an Aviation Machinists’ Mate in the South Pacific until 1945 when he was Honorably Discharged.  He later received his GED and attended University of Lowell for Architectural Design and Construction.

In 1946 Ray started his own business as a cabinet maker and finish carpenter, following in his father’s footsteps. His articulate woodworking skills later evolved into a custom home design and build company, simply known as Ray Proulx Builder.  Although he officially retired in the 1980’s he loved his job so much he continued pursuing his trade well into his 80’s.

A kind, gentle, and patient man he was loved and respected by his family and multitude of friends. Almost a second home to him he loved spending time in Bartlett, NH, in the White Mountains.  An avid skier and one of the original founders of the Lawrencian Ski Club, he was an integral part of finding and helping purchase a lodge for the ski club in 1957 in Bartlett NH. He was an active member in the Ski Club for over 40 years, served as President for many years and held other Board of Director’s positions as well.  He was also an avid golfer, gardener, and was always working on home improvement projects in his own home.  What he will be remembered most for is his art of storytelling!

Ray leaves his two daughters, Nancy Lavoie and husband Frank of Methuen, Susan Dube and partner Michael Muldoon of Lowell, granddaughter Danielle Lavoie and husband Miguel Rosa, grandson Kris Lavoie and partner Taryn Mahoney, and a very special great grandson, Jacob Lavoie.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to calling hours on Friday, September 23, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon at the Dewhirst and Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. A  Funeral Service will follow at 12 Noon at the funeral home.  Burial will take place in the Elmwood Cemetery, Methuen. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial VA Hospital, Descendent Affairs 200 Springs Road Bedford, MA 01730.  Please specify on donation to be used for Building 4 Unit D.For directions and online condolences, please visit www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com .

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond A. Proulx, please visit our floral store.