Raymond Riotte

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to our beloved Raymond. Born on January 1st, 1940, he left us peacefully on April 16th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of grit, passion, and a whole lot of laughter. Most people knew him as Raymond Riotte, the French road racing cyclist who conquered stages of the Tour de France and racked up an impressive 22 victories throughout his career from '66 to '75. But to us, he was simply Dad, Papa, Uncle Ray – a man whose spirit burned brighter than any race jersey. I remember as a kid, he’d tell me stories of those grueling climbs and the thrill of the sprint finish, his eyes sparkling with the memory of it all. He wasn’t just recounting races; he was sharing a piece of his soul. He wore the yellow jersey for a day in '67, a moment of incredible pride, but he always insisted the camaraderie with his fellow riders was what truly mattered. Raymond’s life wasn’t just about cycling, though it was undeniably a huge part of who he was. He loved tinkering in his workshop, always fixing something or building a new project. He had a mischievous twinkle in his eye and a dry wit that could disarm anyone. Family was everything to him. He cherished his wife, Marie, with a quiet devotion that spanned decades, and he was the most wonderfully embarrassing, supportive dad a child could ask for. He beamed with pride at every family gathering, always ready with a hug, a joke, and a plate piled high with his famous apple tart. He taught us the importance of perseverance, the joy of a good challenge, and the value of a hearty laugh, even when things got tough. Beyond his family and his racing, Raymond found joy in the simple things: a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, a sunny afternoon spent tending to his roses, and the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. He was a generous man, always willing to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement. He inspired so many with his quiet strength and unwavering optimism. He touched countless lives with his kindness and genuine warmth. We’ll miss his stories, his laughter, his hugs, and the way he made every room feel a little brighter. Raymond leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a reminder to always chase your passions, no matter how steep the climb. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Marie, his children, grandchildren, and a whole host of friends and family who loved him dearly. Ride on, Papa. Ride on.