RALPH JOSEPH MAFFEI

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RALPH MAFFEI Obituary

MAFFEI, Ralph Joseph Devoted father and loving husband, passed away at the age of 89, on March 3rd from Covid-19 related complications, with his family at his side in Fort Myers, FL, after a valiant fight. Ralph's family takes comfort in knowing he had the richest of lives and helped many along the way, including countless friends and admirers from his years in Massachusetts, New York, and Florida. Ralph was born to Ben and Josephine Maffei in Worcester, MA. An energetic athlete and scholar, Ralph lettered in football, baseball, and track. He graduated from Harvard University, magna cum laude, and later from Harvard Law School. Ralph enjoyed a successful career as a lawyer and senior executive, with a focus on real estate, at several major corporations, including Federated Department Stores, Zayre and Wang. In 1958, he married Sheila Quinn, with whom he had four children, Greg, Margot, Anne, and John, and eventually ten grandchildren. Ralph will be remembered for his wit and infectious laugh. His children fondly remember his lines like, "we're off like a herd of turtles," when the family scrambled to leave the house together, or the playful, "go study," when he saw one of his kids was idling. A lifelong learner and critical thinker, Ralph was always consuming books and happy to discuss topics from history to sports and religion to politics. Ralph will also be remembered for his optimism and generosity. Whether helping to build a hospital in Poland, or volunteering at Legal Aid or church, he loved helping others and was a true friend to many from diverse walks of life. Ralph was a great counselor and conversationalist, genuinely curious about people, asking questions and sharing ideas. People loved Ralph's wonderful blend of savvy and wisdom, toughness and kindness. The world has lost a great one, but with Ralph's entrance, heaven is markedly enhanced. Details about a Service will be forthcoming.

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Published by Boston Globe from Mar. 9 to Mar. 10, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for RALPH MAFFEI

10 Entries

Neil Hurley

February 26, 2025

I was just thinking of Ralph the other day. I was lucky to work for Ralph for a number of years, just a great person and an outstanding mentor who taught me many things. He probably was the smartest guy that I ever met , which combined with his compassionate attitude made him such a caring and great guy !!! RIP, Ralph, we miss you.
Sincerely,
Neil Hurley

Neil Hurley

February 25, 2023

Ralph, we miss you, you were simply "The Best" .

Neil Hurley

February 25, 2022

I still think of Ralph, he was the best , in so many ways: smart, great sense of humor, great mentor, great friend, we miss you, Ralph.

Jay Donahue

March 28, 2021

As my former Wang colleagues have so eloquently stated, Ralph was a fine person and strong influence on our careers. He was a very smart real estate pro and a constant source of industry wisdom. However, everyone who knew Ralph from work had the same view: He was an even better human being than a professional.

For 40+ years Ralph was always there for me, and I highly valued our friendship. I will miss his laughter, camaraderie and upbeat personality even when his health was not the best. My sincere farewell to a great friend and a large presence in my life, along with my condolences to Shelia and their strong, devoted family.

Jay Donahue and Peggy Donahue

March 25, 2021

To the Maffei Family - Our sincere condolences on the passing of Ralph. He was my dear friend, mentor and inspiration for 40 years.

Cluster of 50 Memorial Trees

Michael and Gertrude Aha

March 13, 2021

In loving memory of Ralph Maffei, with our sincere condolences.

Joy Bonner

March 10, 2021

Ralph was a remarkable man. A gentle soul. He had a wonderful smile, truly Loved his Maggie, kids, grandkids. Loyal friend and he will be missed.

Bruce Shick

March 10, 2021

Ralph was a hugely positive influence in my life. I could never thank him enough for all he did to shape me into a reasonable business person and as a better human being. To this day, some of the pearls of wisdom he imparted in sayings still come to mind as I’m thinking about situations.

The world has lost one of its truly good souls. But Ralph will never be forgotten by those who were fortunate to have known him.

Neil Hurley

March 10, 2021

I had the privilege to work for and with Ralph for 10 yrs at Wang Labs. He was one of the smartest and nicest person that I ever worked for. He was my mentor and I was honored to have known him. Please extend my condolences to his family, he will be missed.
Thanks
Neil Hurley

Bonnie Towle Flanagan

March 10, 2021

I worked with Ralph at Wang Laboratories for many years. He had a great sense of humor, great smile and we often chatted about his family. God bless you in the days ahead.

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