Obituary of Raffaele Grasso

GRASSO, Raffaele – Peacefully with his family by his side, Raffaele Grasso died at St. Joseph’s Hospice on Friday, February 16, 2024, at the age of 84.  Beloved husband of Palma (nee Renzullo) for 49 yrs.  Loving father of Anna Grasso, Fio Grasso (Michelle) and Anthony Grasso. Cherished nonno of Michaela, Luca, Joah and Eli.  Also survived by his sister Maria Grasso and Barbato nieces Trish, Silvana, Lori, Diana, Christina and nephew Jim, and their families as well as Grasso nieces, Carmela, Stefania and Maria Angela, and their families. He was a cherished cousin to many relatives in Italy. Predeceased by his parents Fioravante and Carmela, his sister Anna-Rita Grasso and his brother Crescenzio (Emilia).  

Ralph was one of a kind - tough as nails with an overflowing heart of gold. He was always there for his family and his community. Whether you needed a backhoe or a glass of wine, he was there to help. He was proud of Sarnia and his work in the plants, which spanned 5 decades. His famous driving tours of Sarnia brought him, and his passengers, a great deal of joy. Ralph loved to tinker in his garage and took great pride in figuring out how to fix a heavy piece of machinery on his own. He was genuinely at peace and the happiest when all members of our family were all together, such as our family traditions of making homemade wine, salami and tomato sauce. Another favourite pastime was his outings with the grandkids to Cantara Park and under the bridge to feed the fish. He also loved to watch his grandkids play hockey and figure skate.  As patriarch of the family, he showered his kids and grandkids with love and affection, which flowed to his extended family and friends. His wife Palma was his rock and partner in every way. We will all miss him.  

The Grasso family would like to give a special thanks to Raffaele’s Palliative care team at St. Joseph’s Hospice, Dr. Kim, his nurse Debby, John and all of the PSW support from Care Partners.

Visitation will be held at the McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 431 N. Christina St., Sarnia on Wednesday, February 21st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Benedict’s Church on Thursday, February 22^nd at  11 a.m. Interment to follow at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery.  As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice, 475 Christina St. N., Sarnia, N7T 5W3. Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com