Ralph William Marinello

Ralph William Marinello passed away on January 25, 2026, at St. Ann’s Hospital. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Marinello Sr. and Barbara (Long) Marinello. A funeral mass will be held on February 14 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at: St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church 168 E. Lincoln St. Columbus, OH 43215. Reception to follow.

He is survived by his brothers, Michael and Anthony; his sisters, Vita and Jennifer; his aunt, Mary Jane Marinello; and his uncle, Chester Long. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, Andrea, Adam, Amber, Matthew, and Rafael, as well as many cousins and a wide circle of friends and family. Ralph will be deeply missed by his friend and caregiver, Daphne Counts, and her children whom he loved like his own: Tiarra, Courtney, Sean, and Laura.

A Life of Achievement and Curiosity

A deeply curious person and lifelong student, Ralph was an Eagle Scout and a member of the National Honor Society at Brookhaven High School. He continued his education at The Ohio State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1969 and a Master’s degree in 1979.

Ralph excelled in collegiate athletics as a track captain and Varsity letterman and (1967–1969). His talent led him to win three Big Ten Championship awards in 1967 for Broad, Long and Triple Jump. He went on to compete with the team and excel throughout his college career at Ohio State.

Passions and Heritage

Beyond the track, Ralph was a talented photographer, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and uncles. He held a profound love for the outdoors and a dedicated interest in genealogy. This passion for his roots took him to his grandmother’s hometown in Italy, Aquara. He formed lasting friendships in Aquara and returned to the village several times between the 1960s and 1980s.

Ralph’s professional life was marked by service and hard work. He taught Physical Education in Granville, Ohio, and later followed his father into the automotive industry, working for many years at Krieger Ford, Graham Ford, Ricart, and several other dealerships.

Service Information

A funeral mass will be held on February 14 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at: St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church 168 E. Lincoln St. Columbus, OH 43215.

A reception will follow in Marapesse Hall from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.