Ralph Astarita

Ralph J. Astarita, 81 of Goshen NY, formerly of Mahwah and Waldwick NJ, our beloved Papie entered into eternal rest Monday December 23, surrounded by his loving family at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY. He was an avid outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, poker player, mentor and best friend to his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and his great grandchildren. Ralph was born September 23, 1931 in Jersey City, NJ. He attended St. Peter's College in Jersey City, NJ where he earned a BS in Chemistry through a full baseball scholarship. He was drafted by the Boston Braves but chose to enter into service for his country with the United States Navy where he fought in the Korean War. He was a Special Policeman for Waldwick NJ and was Executive Vice President and head Chemist for VanLeer Chocolate Company in Jersey City, NJ. He was the original founding partner of Acqua Pools, in Midland Park NJ, with his two son-in-laws. After his retirement he chose to remain active in a variety of volunteer organizations including his role as former Commander of the VFW, Commandant of the American Legion, and Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. He was the President of Maybrook Sportsman Club and Eucharistic Minister at St. John the Evangelist Church in Goshen, NY. On May 10th, 1953, in Jersey City, NJ, he married his best friend, "the love of his life," Ruth Bodemann Astarita, who still lives in their home in Goshen, NY. He is survived by his loving daughters Linda and her husband Mike Pfister of Goshen, NY, and Leslee and her husband Jim Thoelen, of Salisbury Mills, NY. He is also survived by his grandchildren Todd Longo and his wife Kristen, Jimi Thoelen and his wife Tanya, Troy Longo and his wife Tammy, Jeff Thoelen and his wife Lauren, and Jaimee Furman and her husband Josh, as well as 8 great grandchildren, Gianna, Taylor, Christopher, Briella, Tyler, Bryce, JP, and Kolbie. Services will be held Thursday, December 27th at the Donovan Funeral Home, 82 South Church Street, Goshen, NY with viewings available 2-4pm and 6-8pm. The funeral mass will be held Friday December 28th at St. John the Evangelist Church in Goshen, NY with burial to follow at the Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Goshen, NY. In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. John the Evangelist Church in Goshen, NY. Arrangements under the care of the Donovan Funeral Home, Inc. Goshen. To leave the family a personal condolence please visit www.donovanfunerals.com