Mr. Joseph Real Thibodeau 1931 - 2007 We regret to announce the passing of Joseph Real Thibodeau. Predeceased by his father, Antoine Thibodeau; and his mother, Merilda (Rousselle) Thibodeau. Ray is survived by and sadly missed by his loving family, his wife of 53 years, Pauline (Crawford); children, Liane and partner Joseph Aicher, Dale and wife Colleen (Joe); and grandchildren, Sophia Noelle, Alexandra Marie and Christian Dale Joseph Thibodeau; Ray is also survived by thirteen brothers and sisters, Laetitia (Elzear) McGraw, Yves (Gaetane), Alvina (Claude) Brideau, Delphis, Leola (Mario) Fournier, Eudore, Jeanne Mance (Paul-Emile) Theriault, Levi (Huguette), Martial (Cecile), Antonio (Charlene) Gabrielle (Jean Bernard) LaFontaine, Eymard, Fernand (Sylvie); and many nieces and nephews. He proudly served his country for 31 years in the Canadian Air Force, served overseas where he met his wife Pauline, traveled extensively and lived life to the fullest. A passionate cross country skier, Ray was a three time provincial champion in his age category, won a silver and bronze medal at the Canadian Nationals and finished top ten in the world at the 2002 Cross Country World Masters Championships at Valcartier Quebec. An active volunteer and founding father of the Miramichi Cross Country Ski Club, the annual Miramichi Loppit has been named in his honor. Mr. Joseph Real Thibodeau is resting at Maher's Funeral Home, Miramichi on Thursday, August 16th, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 17th, at 1pm from St. Michael's Basilica Miramichi. Interment will be in the church cemetery. As expressions of sympathy donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the memorial of one's choice would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Maher's Funeral Home, Miramichi, NB. Telephone 773-4321