Obituary for Rene Joseph Melanson, Jr. Rene’ (aka Ray) was a long time resident of Okmulgee Oklahoma, until he passed away 8/12/2018. Ray was born in Danvers Massachusetts 5/23/1927 his mother was Harriett Konzel , father was Rene’ Joseph Melanson. As a young man Ray served in the Navy during WW11, honorably discharged in 1947. During Ray’s time in the Navy he was trained on laundry detail and put in charge of all laundry duties. He enjoyed his time in the Navy and carried his fond memories with him everywhere and was willing to share his experiences frequently and repeatedly. Ray later married the woman he said he fell in love with at first sight, Joy Dent. They had 2 children together: Debbie and Mark. In 1960 Ray moved his family from Massachusetts to Okmulgee Oklahoma. Ray spent time as a Reserve Deputy on the Okmulgee Sheriffs department, and worked at Radio Inc for many years. He later bought Atlas Tool and managed that company with his wife Joy and son Mark for several years, However, the desire and skills of doing expert laundry stayed with Ray and later in life Ray bought Brookside Laundromat in Tulsa Oklahoma, and Fritz Master Cleaners in Okmulgee. Ray continued doing what he loved and openly shared his expertise and knowledge of the laundry business with family and friends. Ray was a successful business man because he not only enjoyed working, he also enjoyed people. He would talk to every customer and even shared old stories with them, he would provide free donuts and coffee every morning at the laundromat. Ray also loved his family and enjoyed every opportunity to be with his family. Ray retired at age 85. Ray and Joy would have lunch together every day and frequent the local diners in Okmulgee, they would always include Donna Calhoun (their niece and long time Okmulgee resident) with them for every lunch. During quiet times Ray loved to read or watch nature shows. Ray was kind to stray animals, the strays would frequently adopt Ray and Joy. Ray was a solid foundation to his family. He was a good man, he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Rene Joseph Melanson, Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Rene Joseph Melanson Jr May 23 1927 August 12 2018.
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Death notice for the town of: Tulsa, state: Oklahoma