Raymond C. Blodgett

ROCHESTER Raymond C. Blodgett, 83, passed away Thursday July 9, 2009 surrounded by family at the Colonial Hill Rehabilitation Center in Rochester following a period of failing health.Born May 8, 1926 in Harmony, Maine, he was the son of the late Howard and Gladys (Rollins) Blodgett. Mr. Blodgett spent the majority of his younger years in Franconia.Ray served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II as 1st gunner on a B-29 bomber. He later worked for Gulf Oil Corp. for 34 years.Ray was past president of P.A.L., N.H. ARC and the Parents Association of the Laconia State School. He was one of the parents instrumental in the closing of that facility.He loved his family, fishing with his beloved grandson, antique cars and trains. He spent many happy times on Lake Winnipesaukee, at his camp in Landaff and family trips in his RV.Members of his family include his wife, M. Priscilla Blodgett of Rochester; his daughter Judith of Loudon; grandson Jesse of Brooklyn, N.Y.; his siblings, Bob and Bill Blodgett both of Landaff, John Blodgett of Burke, Vt., Jane Buchanan of Gray, Maine, and Janice Drew; as well as several nieces and nephews.He was predeceased by his son, Brian Blodgett and his brother, Wayne Blodgett.A memorial service will be held Wednesday July 15, 2009 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 34 South Main St., Rochester, followed by refreshments.Burial will be at Landaff cemetery at a later date.Arrangements are under the direction of the R.M. Edgerly and Son Funeral Home, 86 S. Main St. Rochester, NH.@Online guest book:Visit www.fosters.com/obits for an online guest book.