Raymond Melvin Billard

1928 - 2022

It is with great sadness that the family of Raymond Melvin Billard announces his passing on April 01, 2022, at the age of 94. Ray was born in Aneroid, SK on January 02, 1928. He was the 6th oldest of the ten children of Charles and Hazel Billard. The Billard family existed on a self-sustaining farm during the 1930's. Life was hard but Ray had many happy memories and funny stories about growing up in the Prairies with his 5 sisters and 4 brothers. Later the family moved to Thunder Bay, Ontario where Ray met his future wife, Betty Robillard, on a blind date. It was love at first sight and they were married on August 24, 1957. They had three children and enjoyed 62 happy years of marriage until Betty's passing on November 8th, 2019. Ray was a sheet metal worker by trade and a proud member of his union for over 60 years. In the early years of Ray's career, he worked at jobs in different parts of Canada: Vancouver, BC, Montreal, QC and Steinbach, MB. The family moved back to Thunder Bay and settled to live on a hobby farm. Ray wanted his family to experience a country lifestyle. He grew his own produce and kept many animals. Upon retirement Ray and Betty travelled extensively throughout Canada and the USA. They wintered in Arizona and visited the Caribbean. Later, they extended their travels to Europe visiting Ireland, England and Scotland. Ray will be sadly missed. He was dependable and experienced: a real Renaissance man. His good values were passed on his children. He had a soft heart and he loved us unconditionally. Raymond is survived by his children Brian (Helena), Dawn (Rick), and Patti (Joe), his 5 grandchildren and their families, his brother Clifford, many nieces, nephews and other family members. The family would like to thank the staff at Chartwell Hilldale for the care they provided during dad's stay there. Cremation has taken place and as per Raymond's wishes, there will be no funeral service.

Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com