Raymond John Puccinelli, Sr.

Raymond John Puccinelli

February 29, 1940 – May 30, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and neighbor, Raymond John Puccinelli on May 30, 2026, at the age of 86.

A leap year baby, Ray was born on February 29, 1940, to Reno and Mary (Laslovich) Puccinelli. He was the fifth of eleven children, six brothers: Reno, Bill, Joey, Larry, Tom, and Tony, and four sisters: Arlene, Joanie, Rosalie, and Elizabeth.

A life-long resident of Anaconda, Ray grew up in Goosetown in a two-bedroom home. With little formal education, Ray was able to master many skills including mechanics and carpentry. He could fix anything on wheels and was sought after for his expertise. He worked as a mechanic and later as a supervisor for the Anaconda Company and Montana Resources for 30 years.

Ray lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, craftsmanship, and friendship. He possessed a remarkable ability to build, repair, and create almost anything. He worked hard making sure each of his children had a beautiful home; whether building from the ground up, remodeling, or adding on, he left his indelible mark on each project. Ray took pride in a job well done and was always willing to share his knowledge and talents with others.

Ray was known for his outgoing personality and genuine interest in people. He never met a stranger and maintained countless friendships throughout his life. Ray delighted in his morning get-togethers with his family and friends. Whether it was morning ‘coffee’ visits at his parent’s or sister’s homes, or stopping at a nursing home, he made a habit of checking in on friends, family members, and neighbors, offering encouragement, conversation, and assistance whenever it was needed. His willingness to lend a helping hand was one of his defining qualities and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ray could often be seen cruising with his best friend Pat Reardon or one of his brothers, checking out all the current activities and construction projects going on in town. He was also seen cruising his bike all over town and occasionally he could be found biking to Georgetown Lake!

Those who knew Ray will remember his strong work ethic, quick smile, and generous spirit. Whether fixing a vehicle, tackling a construction project, or simply sharing stories and laughter, he brought warmth and humor to every situation. His presence could always be counted on, and his friendship was a gift treasured by many.

Ray is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marlene; his children, Ray and Debbie Puccinelli, Paul and Tamy Puccinelli, Sean and Denise Taggart, Tim and Gayle Flynn, and Dave and Jodi McCarthy; his grandchildren, Joey (Carrie) Puccinelli, Drew (Michelle) Puccinelli, Paige (Conner) Puccinelli, Brandon (Katie) Puccinelli, Amber Puccinelli, Rachell (Chad) Finnegan, Christian Taggart, McCall Flynn, Taylor (CJ) Flynn, and Lorenzo McCarthy; great-grandchildren, Mara, Casey, Nino, Cece, Jaxson, Charlie, Greyson, Millie, Ellie and Flynn, brothers Bill Puccinelli, Tom (Linda) Puccinelli and Tony (Sandy) Puccinelli, brothers/sisters-in-law Bob Bedey, Ernie Sundquist, Freddie (Pat) Jense, Gene (Tamara) Jense, Rose Puccinelli, Kathy Puccinelli, Joanne Jense, and Carol Varelia, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reno and Mary Puccinelli; parents-in-law Lawrence and Adeline Jense, and siblings: Reno Puccinelli, Arlene Bedey, Joanie and Ted Cook, Rosalie and Chuck Ingalls, Joey Puccinelli, Larry Puccinelli, Elizabeth Puccinelli, grandson Nicholas Puccinelli, brothers-in-law Larry Jense, Leo Jense, Dick Varelia, and sisters-in-law Pat Puccinelli and Fran Sundquist.

The family would like to recognize special lifelong friends, Pat Reardon, Gene Harris, Mickie Nazer, Jimmy Johnston, Marty Heaney, Frank Moreni, Kenny Lombardi, Rich Gates, and Duane Harris, along with the many friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, loyalty, and unwavering friendship. Those friends who touched Ray’s life are too numerous to mention here but know that each of you held a special place in his heart. Ray’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity and willingness to help others. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

If you would like to honor his memory, in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Anaconda Pintler Hospice or to a charity of your choice, or simply consider doing a kind deed for someone.

A memorial service will be held at Anaconda’s Holy Family Catholic Church on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 10:30 am, preceded by visitation at 9:30 am.

“A life well lived is measured not only by accomplishments, but by the kindness shared with others.” Ray’s life was a testament to both.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30am, Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Holy Family Church, 217 W Pennsylvania, in Anaconda. Visitation begins at 9:30am. Rite of Committal will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Anaconda. A luncheon will be held in the Hunthausen Center of the church following the committal rite.

Please visit below to offer condolences to the family or share a memory of Ray.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Crematory have been privileged to care for Ray and his family.