CONCORD- Raymond Cordaro of Concord, NH, previously of Everett, MA, passed away on December 23, 2022. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary "Ellie" (Laws) Cordaro. Loving father of Jillian Laws-Cordaro and John Gonya Jr. of Billerica, MA and Michael Laws and his wife Crystal of TX. Grandfather of Gianna Laws of Billerica, MA, Mikayla, Caitlyn, Matthew, Mary and Michael Laws all of TX. Great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many. Also survived by his very supportive brother-in-law, Edward Laws. Ray and Ellie spent 40 years together raising their children, making memories and building a life they were proud of. His love for her was so strong, he couldn't be here without her and followed her "home" two months after her passing. Ray was the son of Joseph and Mary Agnus (Cotter) Cordaro. He had three siblings, Joseph, Janice and Sandra, and was the trouble-maker of the bunch. At 18, the Vietnam War was at its peak and he was drafted into the Army, where he found himself to be good with weapons and went into the Infantry Division, 11 Bravo. He trained as a paratrooper with the 173rd and 82nd Airborne and made the only combat jump in Vietnam. Of course, that didn't stop his mischievous side from finding trouble and friends and fun. He was proud of his service and was awarded the Bronze Star, and loved to tell stories of his crazy adventures with the people he met, especially the ones with Lester, his monkey who shared his love for grape soda! After returning from Vietnam, following in his father's footsteps, he became a roofer and ran a trusted company with many loyal customers for the next 35 years. He was a craftsman, proud of his work, proud of his good will, and loved by his many customers. He loved working with his hands and teaching his kids and grandkids how to do the things he loved. In his fifties, he decided his body was tired from roofing and became a licensed plumber and personal trainer. He took small engine repair and piano lessons in his sixties, and boxing into his seventies. His zest for life was something to be marveled; he never really grew old. Most of all he will be remembered as a loving and kind man who would help anyone and was always smiling! He made friends everywhere he went, people were simply drawn to him and he loved people. More than anything, he loved his family, he was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He taught his children the value of hard work and dedication, that life is to be enjoyed and everyone deserves a second chance. He wanted them to have a good life, but also to earn it, for family to be important and to take in every moment and live life to the fullest. Ray loved a good laugh and making others laugh with him was even better! His grandchildren were one of the greatest joys he had. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with them, hiking, fishing, and talking about nonsense or making a mess, which drove his wife crazy! Those closest to him take peace in knowing he is with his wife and dog Armani, which is right where he wanted to be. Life is eternal to a man with his kind of faith, and he will live forever in the heart of those who knew and loved him! A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, December 29th at 1 P.M. in the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the main entrance by 12:45 P.M. Assisting the family with arrangements is The Roan Family Funeral Home in Pembroke. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.roanfamilyfuneral.com