Ralph Garcea, Sr., age 89, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2020 at The Villages, Florida. Ralph split his time between the Village of Glenbrook and his lake home in Pulaski, NY. Born and raised in Syracuse NY, Ralph met the love of his life, Evelyn, while a counselor at Camp Zerbe (Williamstown NY) and was married three months later, enjoying 62 years together before she passed in 2016. They raised three sons in a home full of love, family adventures and delicious food. Ralph was an avid skier and golfer as well as a Little League Coach for his sons. He loved cooking, reading, playing cards with his family and singing. Ralph always had a smile on his face. He was a father figure to many who enjoyed his company and looked to him for advice on any topic. Logical and insightful, he helped many of us grow and make sense of any situation, continuing his lifelong passion of counseling. Along with his immediate family, many “adopted” children will also mourn the loss of this great man.
Ralph was born in Syracuse to first generation Italian immigrants, Nicola and Palma Garcea. His stories of those times were always interesting and quite special. After graduating high school, Ralph served in the Army, stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey. When his service was completed, he moved his young family back to Syracuse and resided there most of his life.
He received his Arts and Science degree from Syracuse University and became a counselor at the Boys and Girls Club of Syracuse. This solidified his resolve to help as many people as he could. His gift of relating to all people led him to further his education at the University of Buffalo receiving his Master’s Degree in Social Work and continuing his career with the Syracuse City School District. He had many positions in administration with the district and retired as the Director of Pupil Services. He was always advocating for the children and families of the school district he loved. Anyone who came in contact with Ralph knew that he was special. He made many lifelong friends who all smile whenever his name is mentioned.
Besides his parents, Ralph was predeceased by his wife, Evelyn; sister, Rose (Robert) Suskin; brother Anthony (Margarite) Cosco; sister Mary (John) Quinzi; and several special nephews and nieces. Ralph is survived by his children: Ralph Jr. “Rick” and Leslie, James and Tasha (Schwartz), Daniel and Janet (Stevens) along with his beloved grandchildren: Kelly Garcea and Ralph III “RJ” Garcea. He also leaves behind a host of loving cousins, nieces, nephews, “adopted children” and special friends. We will all miss this great man. He’s a tough act to follow but we will make him proud. Give Evie a big hug and look over your family. We love you.
Special thanks to Jimmy and Tasha for taking such loving care of Ralph for the last year. His life was enriched and enhanced by all you both did. It meant the world to him.
The family is planning a future celebration of the lives of both Ralph and Evie when Covid restrictions are lifted.