Raymond P. Ireland, 78, of Tyler Rd., Waterville, NY, passed away Saturday, May 19, 2012 at his home.
He was born November 21, 1933 in Utica, a son of Raymond H. and Mary Ellen Quinn Ireland and was a graduate of Waterville schools. Raymond was married to Patricia O’Dowd at St. Mary’s Church in Clinton. He was the owner and operator of Ireland and Son Excavating until his retirement in 1996. Ray loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was also an enthusiastic collector of antique autos and especially enjoyed driving his antique cars and fire truck in parades. He was a loving and devoted father and grandfather whose favorite times were spent with his family.
Ray was a member of St. Bernard’s Church in Waterville; member and former Vice President of the Waterville Fire Department; member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #569 of Oriskany Falls; the Cassety Hollow Rod and Gun Club and the Waterville Forest and Fish and Game Club. He was also a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
Surviving are his ex-wife, Patricia of Waterville; his children, Terry Ireland of FL; Thomas and Mickey Ireland, Julie Boice and her fiancé Claude Farber, Maureen and Jim Wratten, all of Waterville; sisters, Katherine Gall of Waterville and Joan Stedman of Chadwicks; his grandchildren, Jamey Windover of Clayville; Sean Ireland of FL; Randy Ireland and Jill Ireland, both of Waterville; Jason Boice of Frankfort; Andy Boice of Germany; Allan Boice of Vernon Center; Raelyn Ireland, Jamie Wratten and Lindsey Wratten, all of Waterville; and four great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins, including a special niece Annemarie Glouse who was instrumental in coordinating his health care. He is also survived by his wonderful caregiver, Eydie Waterman; his close friends, Keith “Huffy” Huff and Jim Crow. He was predeceased by two daughters, Patty Ann and Laurie Rae; a brother, Charles Ireland; brother-in-law and close friend, Dutch Stedman.
Ray’s family wishes to express their appreciation to Dr. Barbara Jeffers and her staff for the wonderful care they provided for him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am Friday, May 25, 2012 from St. Bernard’s Church, 199 Stafford Ave., Waterville, followed by interment in St. Bernard’s Cemetery.
Friends are invited to call at the Kloster-Northrop & Bentz Funeral Home, 210 E. Main St., Waterville on Thursday from 5-8pm.
In lieu of flowers, Ray’s family asks that contributions in his memory be made to the Waterville Fire Department; the Kelley Phillips American Legion Post #569, Oriskany Falls; or to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., New Hartford.

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