Ralph Spinelli

Ralph passed away on the afternoon of Thursday, July 14, 2022, at Advent NSB. He had fought off (& had survived) multiple health challenges, especially over the past 7 years. He faced those challenges with his always positive attitude and his great sense of humor. Even though he had some encouraging days recently, the Lord realized the increased suffering he recently developed and had Ralph join him. Ralph was born on September 17, 1935, in Brooklyn, NY. His parents were Ralph J. and Martha Moran Spinelli. His parents and his sister Joan (Ray) DePrizio predeceased him. He grew up and lived in the Bay Ridge section of Brooklyn where he stayed until he completed high school and joined the United States Navy. Ralph served very proudly during the Korean Conflict, spent most of his time in the Pacific, and was a 3rd Class Petty Officer. For the rest of his life, he treasured his time serving in The Navy and was the first to recognize and thank fellow veterans. After The Navy, Ralph went to Harpur College, which is now Binghamton University. He graduated with a BA in Economics, served as student body president, president of the Young Republicans Club, and was pictured on the cover of the Harpur College yearbook. Ralph remained in the Binghamton area until he retired to New Smyrna Beach, Florida. He was always an advocate of small businesses, so he started his own employee benefits and financial planning firm, Upstate Management, which he renamed the Bay Ridge Financial Group. Ralph was very proud to have helped the "little man" and to extend that help to financial planning and benefits for their workers. Ralph "practiced what he preached" and was very appreciated for always taking special care of his employees. He believed in giving back and did so by being active in many organizations; Kiwanis, Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, American Legion, and many organizations for Veterans. Ralph is survived by his best friend and wife of 51 years, Carol Welsh Spinelli, stepdaughter Beth Marshall, his sister Susan (Michael) Goldberg, nieces, nephews, and many, many close friends. While we all miss him, his conditions made him live for us, not him, and somehow he knew it was time to start his next journey. He left us with memories that will forever inspire everyone who knew Ralph/Redman. Ralph requested no services at this time but suggested a gathering/party in his honor when we are not so sad & he said to remind you that he is a big fan of fun times. The Navy flies the nautical flags "B" and "Z", Bravo Zulu, to indicate a job well done. So, Ralph.... A huge BRAVO ZULU for a life WELL DONE! Thanks!