Ronald E. Graboski

Ronald E. Graboski, 83
Ronald E. Graboski, 83, of Westerleigh, passed away on Dec. 14, 2018.
He was born and raised in Elm Park to Stanley and Mae Graboski (Bartosiewicz). From early on, a sense of adventure and zest for life lead Ron to accumulate a wealth of knowledge and stories matched by few. His family will cherish the stories of his journeys, from making his way with friends to Steeplechase Park, to sailing the East River, to having the most popular grill at the Polish American Festival.
Mr. Graboski entered the workforce after graduating from Port Richmond High School in 1953. He first worked as a lab technician with the former Wallerstein Co., Mariners Harbor, which produced Bosco chocolate syrup. In 1957 he signed on to the New York City Police Department and five years later joined the Fire Department of New York, stationed in Manhattan and Staten Island, and retired Lieutenant from Engine 241 in Brooklyn in 1995. He also worked part time with Staten Island Limousine Service in Meiers Corners.
For 28 years, Mr. Graboski also proudly served as a member of the United States Army National Guard based at the Manor Road Armory as a mess sergeant. The highlight of his military service was managing dining services for 700 military personnel at the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, N.Y. His pride in service and in his country will not be forgotten.
Mr. Graboski was an active member of his community with many hobbies. An avid skier, he was a long-time member of the Staten Island Ski Club, with whom he traveled to various locations around the world. He was a member of the congregation of Saint John's Lutheran Church, where he also served as Board President. He was also a member of the Beacon Light Masonic Lodge and Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America. In his retirement he remained dedicated to his fellow members of the FDNY, serving as president of the VSF Coalition Inc., participating as a member of the Staten Island Division of FDNY Retirees, and volunteering to support first responders in the wake of 9/11. Most of all, he cherished his role as "Grandpa" to his loving grandchildren over the past 33 years.
Mr. Graboski is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years and best friend, Joan (Dahlberg) Graboski, his four children, Ronald D. Graboski (Diane), Steven Graboski (Nancy), Edward Graboski (Gerri), and Joann Mostovoy (Vadim), 10 grandchildren, one great-grandson as well as his sister, Joan Coressel, and brother, Stanley Graboski (Josephine), sister-in-law, Charlotte Dahlberg, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and life-long friends. His appreciation and joy for life will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held at Casey Funeral Home on Monday, Dec. 17 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Service will be celebrated on Tuesday, Dec. 18 at 10 a.m. at Saint John's Lutheran Church, 216 Jewett Ave., Staten Island, N.Y. 10302. Interment to follow at St. Peter's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made "In Memory of Ronald Graboski" to Saint John's Lutheran Church, 663 Manor Rd., Staten Island, N.Y. 10314.

Casey Funeral Home
350 Slosson Ave.
Staten Island, N.Y. 10314
(718) 447-4242