Ralph A. Vitale, 98, of Toms River, formerly of Newark, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025.

Mr. Vitale served in both World War II and the Korean War. He became a sergeant in the United States Army, "gaining his stripes!" After the War, he worked as a mason and brick layer, even building part of the northbound Garden State Parkway in the 1960's.

Later jobs, included working at Colonial Life Insurance Company in East Orange and delivering goods for Anchor Savings, then Community Surgical in Toms River.

He pursued classes in baking and cooking in Bloomfield and went on to cater weddings, including making three tier wedding cakes.

Favorite hobbies? Cooking for his family and friends. Crabbing at the Jersey Shore was a close second past time, teaching the younger generations the technique of catching crabs. He enjoyed his boats, his cars, and most of all his beloved NY Yankees.

Devoted father of Lisa J. Vivino.  Cherished grandfather of Christopher Vivino, his wife Brooke, Eric Vivino and Lauren Vivino.  Proud great-grandfather of Oliver, Claire and Grant Vivino.  Dear brother of Gloria Cadena.  Also survived by his son-in-law Floyd Vivino, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Treasured pets Cee Cee and Daisy.

Ralph was pre-deceased by his wife Eleanor Vitale, his parents Louis and Rose Vitale, and his siblings Vincent Vitale, Louis Vitale, Theresa Alberto and Tina Fabricatore.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday, June 18th from 4-7pm.  Funeral on Thursday, June 19th, assembling at the funeral home at 9:30am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Francis Xavier Church in Newark at 11am.  Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in N. Arlington.

Donations can be made in Ralph's name to the St. Hubert's Animal Shelter, see donation box below for details….

St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center
575 Woodland Ave, Madison NJ 07940
Tel: 1-973-377-2295
Web: http://www.sthuberts.org