Obituary of Raymond McLaren

Raymond W. McLaren, recognized as the 1986 Outstanding Citizen for the Town of Burlington passed away after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 81 years old. Ray was born in Somerville, the son of the late Joseph “Mack” and Ella McLaren. At the age of 14 his family settled in Burlington. He graduated Burlington High School in 1947 and went onto to attend Northeastern University. He served in the Navy during the Korean War. He worked for Tritek Corporation in Burlington as a salesman/engineer for 25 years. Ray’s life revolved around his family, community, and his faith. With his outgoing personality, humor, genuineness, and passion, Ray always found himself involved in some event or club. It was not his persona to let others bear the work burden. He got involved and made things work. He was a Past President of the Burlington Hockey and Skating Association. He helped run the Fourth of July Parades in the 1980’s. He was a member of the Jaycees and the Knights of Columbus. He served on Burlington’s Bylaw Committee. He was an active member of Saint Margaret’s Church. He loved people and working with children. He was a good friend to many and made Burlington a better place to live. He was recognized for his service to the Town of Burlington in 1986 with the honor of Outstanding Citizen. Ray was the beloved husband of the late Margaret R. (Rogers) McLaren. He was the father of Stephen & his wife Janet of Pepperell, Colleen Gagnon & her husband Michael of Dracut, and the late Timothy. He was the brother of Ella Harrington of Billerica, the late Joseph “Bob” McLaren, and Irene Freel. He was also survived by 9 grandchildren. Funeral from the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Saturday, September 18 at 9 a.m. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Margaret’s Church, Burlington at 10 a.m. Visiting hours Friday from 4-8 p.m. Interment in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. Memorials in Ray’s name may be made to St. Margaret’s Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington, MA 01803.