Demetrio "Ralph" Rodriguez

Demetrio "Ralph" Rodriguez, a man who lived a life as vibrant and colorful as the cakes he once decorated, has taken his final bow at the grand age of 97. Born on December 19, 1927, in the picturesque town of Albonito, Puerto Rico, and raised in The Bronx New York. Ralph brought his zest for life to New Jersey, where he passed away on September 9, 2025, due to heart and kidney failure.

Ralph, the beloved third youngest child of Esperanza and Joaquin Rodriguez, was a family man in the truest sense. He shared an incredible journey of 76 years with his wife Theresa. Together, they were the proud parents of 11 children. Ralph's legacy extended far beyond his immediate family, with a whopping 66 grandchildren, including great and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom inherited his infectious smile and playful spirit.

Ralph's early years were spent in The Bronx. His life was as varied as his interests; from a young Merchant Marine in 1945-1946 to a master cake decorator at the famous Cushman's Bakery, he knew the recipe for a fulfilling life and a seasonal holiday Christmas tree salesman. Eventually, Ralph found his calling in Local 32-BJ building maintenance, where he dedicated over 30 years of service. At the ripe age of 65, he hung up his work boots and embraced the leisurely life at the Adult Community of Holiday City in New Jersey from 1993 onwards.

An avid sports enthusiast, Ralph managed a softball team for many years, always with a twinkle in his eye and a strategy up his sleeve. His passion for sports was only rivaled by his love for his teams-the New York Giants and the Yankees. Ralph could often be found recounting tales of the legendary Joe DiMaggio, and Whitey Ford whom he had the thrill of watching play. In his eyes, no one could ever outshine the magic of DiMaggio #5.

Describing Ralph is like trying to pick the best flavor of ice cream; it's impossible because they're all good. But if we must, loving, kind, and funny are the scoops that top the list. He was the guy who, even in his nineties, could crack a joke that would have the whole room laughing. His humor was as timeless as the classic comedies he loved. His famous lines of "give me the number", "monies not the object", "I'm the general", "I have a clear head", "I'm the boss" and "what I've done in my lifetime", will forever be embedded in our brains.

As we say our farewells to Demetrio "Ralph" Rodriguez, we celebrate a man whose laughter was contagious, whose heart was an open door, and whose life was a testament to the joy of simply being oneself. Ralph, you may have left the field, but the echoes of your laughter still warm the bleachers. Here's to a life well-played, a game well-loved, and a man who will forever be our Most Valuable Player. Rest in joy, Ralph, for you have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know you.