Raymond B Pugliese Jr

Raymond B. Pugliese, Jr. passed away Monday April 16th 2012 at home surrounded by his cherished family after a long period of declining health. Raymond was born in Worcester; his parents were the late Raymond B. Pugliese Sr. and Claire H. (Downes) Pugliese. He attended Shrewsbury High School, and then joined the U.S. Navy to serve his country during Vietnam. Upon return he courted and married his beloved and cherished wife of the past 32 years, June (Tainter) Pugliese. Together they lived in Shrewsbury before settling in West Boylston 17 years ago to raise their family. Besides his wife June, Raymond is survived by two sons, his so loved Michael and Nicholas Pugliese; his three sisters, Cathy Cullen and her husband William of Eliot Maine, Diane Venuti and her husband Paul and Nancy Cunningham all of Madeira Beach, Florida; Many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and his beloved dog Zoe. Ray worked as a salesman most of his life here and in Florida before having to retire due to illness. Ray was a devoted family man, happiest while enjoying the outdoors with his wife and sons. He loved boating, fishing, camping, hunting and working in his garden. Ray took on the role of father figure to his son's friends and the children in his neighborhood and was just an all round joy to be with. He was a member of Freedom Worship Center and the NRA. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, April 19th from 5 pm to 7 pm in Freedom Worship Center, 141 West Boylston St. West Boylston. A service of celebration will follow at 7 pm in the church. Burial with military honors will be held Friday, in the Massachusetts Veterans Cemetery in Winchendon. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Freedom Worship Center, 141 West Boylston St West Boylston. THE MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St Worcester is honored to assist the family with arrangements.