Ralph A. Laurenzo
July 14, 1943 - August 20, 2026
Obituary
Ralph A. Laurenzo, aged 83, of Rutherford, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026. Born on July 14, 1943, Ralph devoted his life to education and family, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
A dedicated physical education teacher and varsity soccer coach, Ralph inspired countless students and athletes through his passion and leadership. He also proudly coached his own children in their sports endeavors. Beyond the schoolyard, Ralph was an accomplished musician and vocalist. Known for his love of ballads and classics by Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra, he serenaded family gatherings and performed with close friends in a wedding band, where he played keyboard and sang with heartfelt devotion.
Ralph’s warmth and generosity defined him as a truly loving and devoted family man. He is survived by his cherished wife, Susan (née Liozzi) Laurenzo; his daughter, Dianne; his son, Anthony Laurenzo and his wife Theresa; and his grandchildren, Anthony Laurenzo Jr. and Ava Paz Laurenzo; his sister-in-law, Theresa Laurenzo; Nancy and Joe Vai, Rick and Vivian Loizzi, Rose Loizzi, Nick and Kim Loizzi, Michael Loizzi and Matthew Gertzog, and Lisa and Mike Latorraca. He also leaves behind his faithful (noisy) guard dog, Frankie.
His legacy is also carried on by Tina and Doug Sinopoli and the many nieces and nephews who treasured his kindness throughout the years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Filomena (née Pagana) Laurenzo, and his brother, Louis Laurenzo, as well as, Betty and Nick Loizzi, Steve Loizzi, Marie Loizzi.
The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Halpin - Bitecola Brookdale Funeral and Cremation Service, located at 1284 Broad Street, Bloomfield, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the Church of St. Mary, 91 Home Avenue, Rutherford, NJ, followed by inurnment at Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, Rutherford, NJ, at 11:30 a.m.
Ralph’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the communities he so passionately served.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Ralph's name may be made to St. Mary Church Rutherford and the St. Thomas Memorial Guild in Bloomfield.