Ralph Melfi Jr.

Ralph Melfi Jr., 82, formerly of Mt. Vernon Dr., Ellwood City passed away Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at the Community Living Center of the Veterans Hospital in Butler.

Born February 7, 1935 in Wampum, he was the eldest son of the late Ralph and Philomena Barile Melfi Sr. He was married to Kay Takako Melfi for 40 years when she passed away January 4, 2000.

Junior graduated from Wampum High School where he played basketball and earned an athletic scholarship to attend Youngstown State University. While in college, he was drafted into the Army and served during the Korean War. After the War ended, he returned home and graduated from YSU. He then re-enlisted and began his 30 year military career. Junior traveled all over the world, serving his country earning many medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Meritorious Service Medal. During Vietnam, he served during the Tet Offensive. Retiring in 1988 as a Sergeant Major, Junior returned home to Ellwood City. He was a life member of the VFW and the DAV.

Survivors include son, Ralph (Alaine) Melfi III of Indianapolis, Indiana; daughter, Deborah (Dave) Petrucci of New Castle; two sisters, Phyllis A. Melfi of Pittsburgh, Rose Marie Melfi of Mayfield Heights, Ohio; two brothers, William R. (Jeannie) Melfi and Donald L. (Jackie) Melfi, both of Ellwood City; and two grandchildren, Jenna and David Petrucci.

He was preceded in death by a son, Nicholas Patrick in 1971 and a brother, John J. Melfi in 2003.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday June 9 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home 341 Main Street Wampum. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Saturday at Holy Redeemer Church in Ellwood City. Interment will follow in Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Full military rites will be offered by the New Castle Honor Guard.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Community Living Center of the Butler VA Hospital – Attention: MaryAnn/Recreation 325 New Castle Rd. Butler, PA 16001.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.