Ralph L. Fantini

Ralph Leo Fantini, Jr.,75, of Upton, passed away peacefully early on Saturday, June 12th, 2021, after a prolonged fight with numerous health issues.

Ralph was born in Milford, MA on the 26th of July 1945. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Laurie (McMahon) Fantini. Ralph is the son of Ralph Fantini Sr. and Ida (Parent) Fantini, who were original Milford residents. Ralph was immensely proud of his family and was the loving father of his three daughters: Monica Turner and her husband Shawn of Millbury, Sheri Anderson and her husband Donnie of Upton, and Sheila Dalesio and her husband David of Milford. Ralph also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Evan and Emma Turner, Nicholas and Hannah Anderson, Celia, Sophia and Antonio Peniche and Dylan Dalesio.

Ralph is also survived by his brothers and sister; Ray Fantini of Milord, Elaine Dias and her husband Fernando of Northbridge, Michael Fantini and his wife Cindy of Northbridge, Richard Fantini and his life partner Sue Laradis of Milford and extended family across the country.

He is pre-deceased by his parents Ralph and Ida and brother Peter Fantini.

Ralph and Laurie were married at Holy Angels Church in Upton on October 18th, 1968 and lived in Massachusetts and Arizona throughout their married life, finally planting roots in Upton over 25 years ago. He was a communicant of St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish and sang in the choir with his wife Laurie at Holy Angels and St. Gabriel’s for many years.

Ralph attended St. Mary’s and Milford High School. A few years later, he enlisted in the Navy where he served as a cook on the U.S. Alcor. He loved to share his experiences on many occasions with his family.

Throughout his life, Ralph worked several local jobs and then began his own painting business where he remained until his retirement.

In his youth, Ralph developed an interest in collecting records, 45s and albums, during the 50’s and 60’s. He was known as “Rockin’ Ralph” and he loved to spin some great tunes while his wife, family and friends danced and sang along. Music was a big part of his life; he was a drummer in his youth. He loved old cars, art and music and always enjoyed keeping a beat.

While we grieve his death, Ralph will remain ever present in our lives through the wonderful memories which he helped to create – memories we take with us as we move forward in life.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 8th at 11 AM in St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish, 151 Mendon Street, Upton. Burial, with military honors will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Upton.

Calling hours will be on Wednesday, July 7th from 5 to 7 PM in the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home, Inc. 45 Main Street, Upton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to St. Jude or Shriners.