Raffaele Amelio

Raffaele Amelio, 78, of Middletown, NY, entered into eternal rest on June 28, 2024, at Garnet Health Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Raffaele was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
Son of the late Giovanni and Antonietta Amelio, he was born on December 20, 1945 in Vincolise, Provincia di Cantanzaro, Calabria Italy.
Raffaele served in the Italian Air Force from 1966-1967 and later immigrated to this country in October of 1968 where he began his journey of following the American dream. He eventually opened his own drywall/spackling business, Ralph Amelio Drywall, where he affectionately and proudly became known as the 'Drywall Legend.' Raffaele enjoyed spending time in his garden and watching Nascar on Sunday afternoons.
Raffaele was a true family man and patriarch in his family. He was the life of the party and lit up any room that he walked into. "Ralphie Baby" left a lasting impression on anyone he met.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Esterina; loving children Antonietta (Rob) Jaxel and Teresa Amelio; and grandchildren Daniel and Caroline. He also leaves behind sisters Concetta Panetta, Maria Arrotta, brother Antonio (Rosina) Amelio, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his brothers-in-law Ilario Panetta, Carmine Arrotta and best friend Nicola Parrotta.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00-8:00 on Monday, July 1, 2024 at Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home, Inc, 130 Highland Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940. A Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be celebrated at 11:0 Am on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at St. Joseph's Church, 149 Cottage Street, Middletown, NY. Entombment will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery.
A special thank you to Dr. Concetto Rametta and Dr. Manuel Perry for the exceptional care that they provided to Raffaele.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Raffaele's name may be made to the MDS Foundation.