Ralph John Turcio, 92

Ralph John Turcio, age 92, of New Haven, passed away on April 21, 2011. He was born on April 18, 1919 in New Haven, Connecticut to the late John Turcio and Immaculata Della Donna. He married the love of his life, his late wife of 61 years, Anne Thorpe on Novembar 15, 1949. He owned the Park Gate Spa in New Haven in the 1950’s. He owned and operated R.J. Construction for approximately 20 years and retired from the City of New Haven in 1992. He never truly retired. He enjoyed spending his time working at the Batter’s Box.

He followed in his father’s footsteps as a Registrar of Voters and a moderator at each election for the 18th Ward. He was a member of the 59 Groaners of Morris Cove. Ralph played semi-pro football for the Braveard Indians. His love of sports encouraged him to create a sports program for St. Bernadette’s School in New Haven. His passions were coaching and supporting his two sons during their athletic endeavors. When he spoke of his sons, he was very proud and would gleam with pride. Ralph’s grandchildren became the center of his life. A tradition at the Turcio household was Thursday night dinners with the family, followed by a card game of gin which undoubtedly always led to routine arguments.

He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and to meet him was to love him. He will be truly missed. We love you Pop-Pop. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Robert and Carol Turcio, and their daughters, Arriana Turcio and Corrine Turcio of North Haven, Connecticut and son and daughter-in-law James Turcio and Elaine Braffman of New Haven, Connecticut, and his children, Jessica Turcio of North Branford and James Turcio II of New Haven, Connecticut and great-granddaughter Anaelecea Marie Turcio, sister Mary Catalano and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters Matilda Whelahan and Eleanor Raccio. Funeral from the Clancy Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven, Wednesday morning at 11:00. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Bernadette Church, New Haven at 11:30. Burial will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery. Friends may call Tuesday from 4 – 8pm. Memorial contributions may be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405. www.ClancyFuneralHome.com