Obituary of Ralph L. DeCosimo, Jr.
Ralph L. DeCosimo, Jr., known to many as “Mouse,” passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a legacy of patriotism, dedication, and love for his family. Born on March 31, 1939, in Elizabeth, NJ, to the late Ralph L. and Jennie DeCosimo, Ralph grew up in Iselin and had called New Egypt his home for the past 35 years.
At 17, Ralph proudly enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving his country with honor and instilling a deep patriotism that remained with him throughout his life. He was devoted to the principles of America and was especially looking forward to participating in the upcoming election; with the help of his family, he was able to cast his vote before his passing.
For over 25 years, Ralph worked at Gordon’s Gin Distillery in Linden, NJ, where he was a valued employee and served as union president, supporting his colleagues with dedication. Ralph was among the last to leave when the facility closed, a testament to his commitment and loyalty. In later years, he found fulfillment working for the Marlboro school district.
Ralph had a lifelong love for classic cars, enjoying rebuilding them and attending swap meets and auctions, with his wife Lorraine and family. He also treasured time spent at his farm in Bainbridge, NY, where he took pride in maintaining the land, cutting the grass, and caring for his tractors. A true craftsman at heart, Ralph found immense joy in creating, particularly his famous homemade sausages, which were a testament to his love for hands-on artistry and family traditions.
Ralph was a devoted family man, who consistently put his loved ones first. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lorraine, in 2022, and is survived by his children, Anthony DeCosimo, Renee Zarelli and her husband Tony, and Michelle DeCosimo; his stepdaughter Jacqueline DiMonaco and her husband, Dave; his cherished grandchildren, Brielle, Will, and Anthony; and his step-grandson, Joseph. Ralph is also survived by his brother, John DeCosimo, and his wife, Catherine.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ralph’s memory to the Deborah Heart and Lung Foundation or Tunnels to Towers Foundation.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A funeral service will take place on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ, where Ralph will be laid to rest beside his beloved Lorraine.
Ralph will be remembered for his steadfast loyalty, his love of country, and his many passions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
