Obituary of Raymond G. Ouellette

Raymond Gerard Ouellette, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, and community volunteer was a bright light in this world that shined on many. He passed away peacefully, at the age of 84, on January 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. His friends were in his heart, as he was in theirs; his legacy will live long into the future. Ray was born August 8th, 1937, in Lewiston, Maine to the late Ernest and Cecile Ouellette. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jane (Harlock); daughters; Danielle Julias (Michael) and Michelle; son Gregory (Tiffany); grandchildren, Raistlyn, and Alexander, and his devoted friend Peter Battaglia. Determination and work ethic were evident in Ray at an early age. He graduated from high school in Biddeford, Maine. He attended the University of New England (formally St. Francis College) and graduated in 1961. As a first-generation college graduate, his determination earned countless accolades in both academics and athletics—highlighted by his success in basketball, tennis, and soccer. On November 19, 1966, Ray married the love of his life, Jane. They uprooted their lives and moved to Gogama, Ontario in 1967 where he became a hunting and fishing guide, as well as a co-owner of Gogama Lodge until 1971. And, while Raymond’s interest in the outdoors remained a constant, the couple moved back to New York to raise their family. Ray earned his Master’s Degree in Education from Buffalo State in 1977. He continued his journey as a teacher for over 30 years and as an athletic coach for 43 years. Ray taught English, French, Reading, and Special Education in the Niagara Falls School district at North Junior, Trott, and Niagara Falls High School. During this time, Ray also coached tennis, bowling, track and his favorite, football; he was also instrumental in introducing bowling to Lewiston Porter High School. Though he was always busy he still found time for things he loved; auto racing, working outdoors, and of course, chocolate. Though he retired from teaching in 1992, Ray’s passion for coaching and teaching did not diminish. He continued coaching football at Tonawanda, Amherst, and Lewiston Porter. He also taught Driver’s Education at Williamsville, Wilson, Niagara Falls, and Lewiston Porter. Ray found ways to give back to his community. He devoted time on the Niagara Pioneer Soccer Board, was treasurer of the church council at the Holy Family Parish, and proudly volunteered as an EMT and Secretary for the Upper Mountain Fire Company starting in 1995—a role that he absolutely cherished. Everyone who knew Ray quickly understood that he was an extremely kind, loving, and proud man who was devoted to his family, friends, community, students, and athletes. Throughout the years, the stories his family has heard have been countless. They have been heartfelt. And, not surprisingly, they have been expected—as Ray’s family knew precisely how lucky they were to have him in their lives. The legacy Ray left in this world will never be forgotten, his bright light lives on. “When my old man grinned, nobody could help but grin too.” ~ Ernest Hemingway, My Old Man Calling hours will be held on FRIDAY from 3-7 PM. at the HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC. 401 Ridge St. (N. Fourth St. and Ridge St.). Mass will be held at the Holy Family Parish 5180 Chew Rd. Sanborn, NY 14132 on SATURDAY (1/29) at 10:30 AM. Burial will be in Dickersonville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers; please send donations to the Holy Family Parish and/or the Upper Mountain Volunteer Fire Company. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.com