ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father and friend, Ralph J. Veilleux. Ralph left this world on May 18, 2022, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer only to be greeted by his wife, his parents, his grandparents and his many aunts and uncles.

Ralph was born on Jan. 12, 1963, to Joseph and Marguerite (Bilodeau) Veilleux. Ralph spent most of his younger years sharing his time between his home in Waterville above his father’s business, Veilleux Welding, and their home on North Pond in Smithfield. Ralph received his GED and soon after he moved to Florida and began working in the construction industry. Ralph began as a laborer, but his great work ethic progressed him through the ranks to the position of construction supervisor. He held this position for many years right until he became ill eight months ago.

In his younger years at camp, he spent most of his time being mischievous with his cousin, Steven. They could often be found searching for frogs, hunting for crayfish, boating, and fishing around North Pond, camping on Pomleau Island, and sometimes swiping Black Label beer from his father’s garage refrigerator. Many great times were shared on North Pond.

On Feb. 14, 1988, Ralph married Kimberly Sue Walker and soon after came their daughter Carly. Kim passed away in 2015, and Ralph devoted his time and life to his work and being a father to Carly.

Ralph was predeceased by his mother and father, his wife, his paternal grandmother and grandfather, Esdras Peter and Rose Anna (Plante) Veilleux; his maternal grandparents, Auguste and Albertine (Veilleux) Bilodeau and many loving aunts and uncles on both the Veilleux and Bilodeau side.

Ralph is survived by his loving daughter, Carly and her husband Chris Dodgen of Florida, Chris’s mother, Michelle of Florida all of whom were instrumental in helping Ralph through his final days, his three remaining aunts on the Veilleux side – Barbara Veilleux of Florida, Lorraine Zelenkewich of Connecticut and Juanita Veilleux of California. Ralph is also survived by a very special friend, Mio Lopez of Florida and two very special cousins, Steven and Victor of Maine.

Per Ralph’s request, there will be no service and his ashes will be spread in a very special place by his daughter and son-in-law. Ralph was raised as a Catholic and attended church every weekend with his parents. During the last few months of his life, Ralph accepted the fate that was handed to him and never questioned why this had to happen as it did. He was ok with the cards that he was dealt.

One thing he probably would say is that if you are a smoker, quit. It’s just not worth it.

We really miss you Ralph, but we will meet again someday!

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