Mr. Ralph Joseph Lauro

Ralph Joseph Lauro, 82, born on March 22, 1940, in San Pedro, CA, United States, passed away December 30, 2022. He resided in Gardena, CA at the time of his passing. Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Long Beach, California. He was born and raised in the city of San Pedro, CA. He was the son of Italian-American immigrants. While proud to be an American, He was incredibly proud to be Italian and proud of his family's heritage. He grew up attending Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church and Schools... He graduated in 1958. He had a 2yr degree in Business as well as being a Real Estate Agent and a Notary Public. He also served in the Army for 6 yrs. He was a Patriot and was very proud to be a Veteran. Many may know him from working at Von's Supermarkets from the late 1950's through the 1990's when He retired. He was a very popular Cashier, people would wait to go through his line at the store. In 1979, He married Denise Magnesi. They were married for 26 years until her passing In 2005. He leaves behind a daughter from that marriage, Dominique. Once He retired from Vons, He helped out at his Daughter's Junior High School where He became PTA president. The First male to do so. He was a good leader and very good at delegating authority. He kept busy with various volunteer opportunities. He loved to be of service and volunteered and donated to many different charities throughout his lifetime. He was also President of the Holy Name Society at Mary Star of the Sea Church and for many years, A Proud member of the Elks Lodge in San Pedro, CA..... He also helped to put on the Fish Dinners at Mary Star as well. After his wife passed away, Ralph and his daughter moved to Gardena to be closer to her work. He became president first of the Peck Park Seniors Club in San Pedro, CA and Hi-Neighbors Seniors Club in Harbor City, CA. He enjoyed going on various Casino Trips with his daughter and had recently gone on a trip 2 months before his passing.... Ralph died at home after a short illness. He loved life and He loved people. He will now be reunited with his wife, Denise, who proceeded him in death, 17 yrs earlier. Mom and Dad are finally together again.