Ray Robillard of 184 Barker Ave. in St. Johnsbury, Vt., passed away at home surrounded by his loving family Wednesday afternoon, July 4, 2007, after having been ill for the past two months. He was born in St. Johnsbury on Jan. 26, 1939, the son of Alex and Rachel (Collins) Robillard. He married Maureen Finn of St. Johnsbury Oct. 7, 1961. Last year was Ray's 50th high-school reunion, having graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1956. Ray was actively involved with the planning of the weekend events. He was further instrumental in organizing his grade school classmates from St. Gabriel School. Ray retired from Rodd Roofing in 1989. He then turned to what he naturally loved to do in life, cook and prepare food. He started up his apple crisp business in 1990. People grew to know Ray as "The Appleman" at area fairs and local schools where his personable, easy-going manner blended with his craft. Ray was hired to cater many special functions with which the Robillard family all became involved. This continued on a smaller scale with his family and friends. Ray loved being with his family. He was appreciative just to be at home for his final days. He survived by his wife, Maureen of St. Johnsbury; three sons, Eric Robillard and wife Tracie, John Robillard and wife Cindy, and Chad Robillard and wife Veronica, all of St. Johnsbury; and Gloria Aldrich, who was like a daughter to Ray. He was 'Pepere' to his four grandchildren, Jacob, Julia, Gabrielle, and Lucas, and to many other close friends and children; two sisters, Mary Jane Hayes of St. Johnsbury, and Rita St. Jean of Massachusetts; and nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a brother Albert. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday at 9 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church. Visiting hours will be held at the Sayles Funeral Home Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions could be directed to The Good Shepherd Foundation, P.O. Box 146, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 or Caledonia Home Health (marked for 'Hospice'), P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.