Raffaele “Ralph” Battista

Raffaele “Ralph” Battista

Gates/Spencerport, NY

Raffaele “Ralph” Battista, known for his outgoing personality, love of a good party, and his adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully from Parkinson’s-related complications on October 25 at the age of 82. Born in Caiazzo, Italy on January 12, 1942, Ralph traveled through Europe and Canada before immigrating to Rochester, NY in 1966. Shortly after his arrival, he was hired by the distinguished Hickey-Freeman Company where he meticulously crafted bespoke men’s clothing.

Proud of his American citizenry, which he obtained in 1972, Ralph stayed true to his Italian heritage through the traditional meals he cooked, his daily espresso and wine, his expressive gestures, his impeccable sense of style, and most importantly, his strong family ties. Ralph cherished family gatherings, holidays, and spending time with his family and friends. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved whether it was for a simple meal, babysitting his grandchildren, or marking an important occasion. When he wasn’t on the golf course, he could be found enjoying a Manhattan and a cigar in his Italian family room (a.k.a., the garage) and inviting the neighborhood dogs in for a treat or two and their owners to join him for a shot of Limoncello!

Ralph was a retiree of Rochester-based Delco (a General Motors Company that was acquired by Valeo in 2005) where he was a Millwright for 30 Years. There, he made lifelong friends who became part of his family. In the 1980s, he turned his love of wine into a part-time vocation when he became the first NY distributor for The Geloso Group based in Canada. While the venture wasn’t successful, Ralph demonstrated his tenacity and was proud of his efforts.

Ralph was the first-born son of Oreste and Giovanna Battista who preceded him in death as well as his brothers Franco (Gisa) and Antonio (Mena) and his sister Maria (Dominic). Ralph is survived by his wife Diane (Bruno) Battista of 56 years, his son David Battista (Sandy Bostwick-Spencer) of Spencerport, NY, and his daughter Michelle (Battista) Rogers (Timothy Rogers) of Bangor, Maine. He is also survived by his three grandchildren–whom he loved to spoil–Alivia Rogers (Isabelle Todhunter), Alex Battista, and Alanna Battista, as well as his sister Matilde Battista (Antimo Certo), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins here and in Italy.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the staff at St. Ann’s Community in Irondequoit, where Ralph spent his last three years in the care of a compassionate team who called him “papa” and always made sure he got an extra ice cream with dinner.

A celebration of his life for family and friends will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, November 15 at Agatina’s Restaurant (2967 Buffalo Rd, Rochester, NY 14624).

Ralph will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the many hearts of those he touched, and his unwavering love will continue to inspire us.