Wednesday, November 16, 2022
Dear Ray and Maria:
As a kid, I called you Ray, your friends called you Ralph but your mom, oh; she would draw out your name RAFFAELE! when she summoned you. Maria, you were always the loving, shy little girl full of spirit, faith and zest and I will always remember with fondness when you and Antonietta came to Dad’s funeral when he crossed over.
Antonietta was a beautiful soul and I loved watching her walk to work every morning in her crisp white uniform. Too, I was sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing.
In the sixties on Spruce Street, we lived three doors down from your home which your family openly shared with ours, whether it was fresh garden vegetables or homemade wine from Rocco. I remember your grandmother yelling at us (in Italian) out the window when we played ball up against your home’s brick walls or laughed too loudly outside. I had fun growing up with the Micucci’s and I thank you both for a happy childhood; it was a strong foundation that helped bind future friendships.
My heart goes out to you; remember the fun times with your mom.
Lise Raymond (Archambault)
