Jean Raymond "Ray" Grenier

On June 6, at the age of 82 years, the world lost a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Gloria Grenier (Urso), children Lori Ingriselli (Ray) and Andrew Grenier (Roxanne). Loving grandfather to Daniel and Aiden Ingriselli, Broedy and Hayleigh Grenier, Tristan and Jarred LaCroix.

Predeceased by his parents Eloi Grenier (Alida) and Irene Grenier, and brother Rudy. He is survived by his siblings Murielle (Maurice predeceased), Lisette (Ben), Claude (Viviane), and Jocelyne (Ron). Treasured son-in-law to “Ma” (Sandra predeceased), loving brother-in-law to Frank (“Cheech” predeceased), Alma (Silverio predeceased), Helen (Emilio-both predeceased), and Rick (Brenda). A dedicated and loving uncle, deeply cherished by many nephews and nieces.

He started his long tenure at the City of Sudbury as a laborer, digging ditches. His strong work ethic was recognized and rewarded with an electrical apprenticeship. He moved through many roles. He was an electrician, trouble investigator, traffic light specialist and finally a well-respected supervisor in the wastewater treatment plants. After 39 years at the City of Sudbury, he retired at 55 years old.

Not one to stay idle for long, after 6 months of retirement he went to work at the Canadian Tire on Barrydowne in the electrical department, where he spent another 20 years helping people. The long and enduring friendships he forged during his 59 years of work were a testament to the kind of man he was.

Despite facing many health challenges, Ray could be found puttering in his workshop or maintaining his oasis. He was always physically active, and you could find him at the gym every morning. For many years, he volunteered his time at YMCA to help people in their fitness journeys. He was a founding member of the JoeMac committee, which was integral in the implementation of procedures and equipment improvements at the GSPS.

He was a well respected, constant, and unchanging presence on Gordon Avenue. He always offered a friendly word to anyone walking by as he sat on the swing in the front yard. Always a diehard Tim Hortons fan, he enjoyed his coffee with 4 cream and 3 sugar during his working years. Into his retirement, he continued this tradition with his coffee crew, meeting every morning to solve world issues.

A very special thank you to all the people that were there for him, filling his days with company, coffee and laughs. You know who you are.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, July 11th, from 1 - 6pm, at Simple Wishes of the North, 1106 Kingsway, Sudbury.

Professional cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North and Crystal Crematorium.

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