Paul Raymond Roukey

Paul Roukey, 75, of Allenstown, New Hampshire passed away on March 11, 2022. He was born in Grasmere, New Hampshire on April 23, 1946 to Laura and Joseph Roukey, and later grew up in the South Elm Projects as one of ten children. Paul was fortunate enough to be fostered by Ernie and Marjorie Jache after his parents passed at a very young age.

Paul is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 56 years, Beverly (Gardner) Roukey, and his two children: son David Roukey and fianc? Linda Saucier of Manchester, NH and daughter Brenda Roukey and husband Matt Lavoie of Biddeford, ME; his three grandchildren Kelsey Mihachik of Allenstown, NH, Kaitlyn Roukey of Burlington, VT, and Kyle Roukey of Epsom, NH. Paul's siblings include Alfred "Fred" Roukey and wife Connie of Goffstown, NH, and Carol Thompson of Lancaster, NH. He was predeceased by his parents Laura (Lambert) and Joseph Roukey; sisters Ann Roukey, Diane Fenelus, Vivian Roukey, Pauline "Roberta" Roukey, and Charlotte Blanchard; brothers, Edward Roukey and Joseph "Tiny" Roukey.

Paul was educated in both the Catholic and public school systems, Blessed Sacrament at the elementary level and then Manchester Memorial High School as well. He went on to work for the City of Manchester Parks and Recreation, and later Noonan Shoe Patterns. The Noonan Family not only provided Paul with a job, but throughout the years would become a special part of Paul's life as cherished friends. Later, Paul decided he'd get back into the trade Ernie Jache had introduced him to as an adolescent. During this process, he stumbled upon his incredible calling and love of brick and stone masonry. As a skilled mason, he worked in the construction industry for many years and was often sought out by many who knew of his talents to build incredible fireplaces, stone walls, kitchen built-ins, etc. into homes of many family and friends as well. He was proud to work hard and the talent for this craft brought him much joy. If he wasn't laying brick, Paul's hardworking hands always kept busy... whether it was rolling his own cigarette, pulling handles of a slot machine, or pressing the buttons on the TV remote from the comfort of his recliner.

Paul was "the Mayor" wherever he went. He could sit outside of the grocery store while Bev was inside and talk to the homeless outside on the bench and gain a new friend. He could walk outside his home in the dead of winter and end up brushing off a stranger's car. He's the neighbor that says "hi" and quickly becomes a friend you cherish because he's just a good guy. He saw the good in people and he enjoyed them - no matter their background, their age, their ethnicity, their wealth - nothing mattered. He would joke and laugh until inevitably his eyes would fill with tears. Paul also enjoyed spending time behind the wheel, often going for joyrides helping Bev find the most unique New England treasures for their home. Some of the fondest memories were times traveling the US with lifelong friends, Gene and Dianne Plant. During their travels, they always wondered which task was more difficult - getting Paul out of the casinos or Dianne out of museums. Paul was very selfless. He would even often offer up one of Bev's beloved whoopie pies even though he'd prefer to keep it for himself. BE LIKE PAUL.

Paul's laugh and smile will be missed by all those lucky enough to have known him. In lieu of flowers, head to your local 99 Restaurant for Paul's favorite dish of shrimp pasta and dance the dance to be sure the Yankees lose to the Red Sox on opening day. Please join us Saturday, March 26th 11am - 2pm (1pm prayer/stories/chuckles) at the Red Blazer, Concord NH. Paul wouldn't want this to be fancy so come as you are!