Obituary of Ralph R. Damiano

Ralph Damiano died peacefully in the early hours of the morning on January 6, 2024. Ralph, the youngest child of Nicoletta and Donato Damiano was born on September 19, 1928, in Yonkers, New York. He was a life-long Yonkers resident, and the beloved husband of Rosetta Damiano (nee Birrittella), whom he married in 1955. Together they raised their family in Yonkers. Ralph adored his beloved Rosetta, who predeceased him last year, and whom he missed terribly. Even though he seemed to, as he would say, "always have two feet in one shoe," Ralph was the ultimate "lollipop" when it came to her. In her later years, he doted on her every need to ensure she was comfortable. Ralph is survived by his three sons whom he cherished, Mark (Paulette), Ralph (Sylvia) and Damian (Patricia). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joseph (Lisa), Mark (Chrissi), Ralph, Scott, Dillon, and Paul, as well as his great grandchildren, Ella, Joseph, Jr., Haven, Max, & Camryn. Ralph was predeceased by his brothers, Joseph and Raffael Damiano and his sisters, Fay Speranza and Mary Conte. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Ralph was an Operating Engineering running heavy equipment before retiring. He worked all over Westchester County building major thoroughfares including the Cross County Parkway. He was excellent at his job and well-respected in the industry, often requested by the Contracting Companies to be their Operating Engineer. Ralph recently retired from the Town of Greenburgh Meals on Wheels Program where he was a driver and most recently packed almost 200 meals daily for homebound senior citizens. He was very proud to work there and made long-lasting friendships with his customers on his route and co-workers. This "retirement" position lasted 27 years and he thoroughly enjoyed every minute of his time there. Ralph did not just show up for work, he always looked for ways to improve everything. He was also there for anyone in need and would go out of his way quietly to help others. Ralph was a deeply religious man and a devout Catholic. He served as the head usher at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Yonkers for more than sixty years. He carried his Christian faith into his daily life and never missed his daily prayers. When he received last rites, the priest assured us he saw the Lord today and is confident he is with Jesus based on his life. Most importantly, Ralph dearly loved his entire family. His grandchildren and great grandchildren brought him great pride and joy. The entire family will miss him dearly but take comfort knowing the patriarch of our family is with his beloved wife and family, and is at peace and will rest in the comfort of our Lord. Friends may call at the Sinatra Memorial Home, 499 Yonkers Ave, Yonkers, NY on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, from 4-8 pm. The funeral mass will take place at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 602 McLean Avenue, Yonkers, NY at 10 am on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Interment to follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery, 209 Truman Avenue, Yonkers, NY. Donations can be made in Ralph's honor to the Meals on Wheels Program. The Greenburgh Nutrition Program 11 Olympic Lane Ardsley, NY 10952 914-989-1807 In remembrance of Ralph R Damiano