Raymond J. Pollard, 81

Raymond Joseph Pollard, 81, husband to Patricia Ann Pollard for 60 years, passed away Jan. 21, 2021, at the Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller House, in Coeur d’Alene.

Ray was born in August, 1939, in Lowell, Mass., and had two brothers and four sisters. He served four years in the Air Force and was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base, near Spokane, Wash.

For the past 53 years, Ray lived in Coeur d’Alene with his wife, Pat, and their two daughters. Ray worked at GTE for 27 years and retired in 1995.

Ray had a big heart that could be hidden by a gruff facade. He was genuine, direct, hardworking, had a great sense of humor, and lived simply. He loved life and had the determination to overcome a myriad of health issues throughout the last half of his life.

He was happiest being active, whether it was working in the yard, watching and feeding the birds, walking, riding his bike or fishing. He especially enjoyed tending and harvesting his large vegetable garden. Ray loved and would do anything for his family.

Surviving Coeur d’Alene area family members are beloved wife, Patricia; daughters, Renee Lepagnol (husband, Ray) and Alison Gonsalves (husband, Shaun); granddaughter, Crystal; grandson, Ryan (wife, Tawny); great-granddaughters, Trinity Aspen and Paisley; and great-grandsons, Remy (who he helped babysit and formed a special bond with) and Ivan. Ray is also survived by his brother, Tom; and sisters, Mary, Carole and Nancy. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph; mother, Eleanor; brother, William; and sister, Elizabeth.

A heartfelt thank you to the Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller House staff for the incredible care Ray received and for the support that was extended to the family. It was a blessing that the family was able to visit Ray daily and share laughter, stories and memories with him.

We will always carry you in our hearts and will be eternally grateful for your unending love and support.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Ray’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.