Ralph H. Burpee, 73

Ralph H. Burpee, age 73, of Wilmington, died unexpectedly on March 19, 2013, at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington.

Ralph was born on February 3, 1940, in Boston, MA., he was the cherished only son of the late Ralph H. And Madeleine R. (Whitney) Burpee.  Ralph was raised in Arlington and was a graduate of Arlington High School.  Ralph continued his education at Northeastern University earning his degree.

Ralph was known as a hard worker and a dedicated employee.  Prior to retiring, Ralph was employed as a scientist for the Polaroid Corporation in Waltham for more than 30 years.

Ralph married his “sweetheart” Arlene M. Gaumond in 1963, sharing nearly 50 years of marriage.  The couple moved to Wilmington in 1965, where they raised their wonderful family of four and Ralph thoroughly enjoyed being “Grampy” of six.

Ralph loved his family and the time he spent with them; whether it was traveling, visits to England, fishing at Big Lake in Maine, camping, or just sitting in the yard having long talks.

Ralph liked puttering around his home in Wilmington, doing his woodworking projects, and he enjoyed being out with his bird feeders.

Ralph will be fondly remembered for his love of all animals but especially his dogs, he enjoyed listening to music, studying history, and he had a passion for fast cars and motorcycles.

Ralph had a great sense of humor, he was personable and friendly.  Ralph was always there for his family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Ralph was the beloved husband of Arlene M. (Gaumond) Burpee, devoted father of Ralph E. Burpee of Dededo, Guam, Douglas M. Burpee of Reading, MA, Derek W. Burpee and his wife Hyon Su of Fayetteville, NC, and Cassandre McKinley of Hopkinton, MA, loving Grandfather of Derek, John, Joseph, Nicholas, Dylan, and grand-daughter Alexandre, dear brother of Diane Anderson of Wilmington, the late Barbara Berton and Joan Macone.  Ralph is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather at the Inc., 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, on Sunday, March 24th for Visitation from 2-5 p.m. immediately followed by a Funeral Home Service at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations in Ralph’s memory may be made to , P. O. Box 536, Wilmington, MA 01887 or to the Wounded Warrior Project, P. O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS  66675.  www.nicholsfuneralhome.com