Ralph Vellone, a long time Rye resident, passed away on Feb. 20. He was 92.
Born in the Bronx on Oct. 27, 1932, he was one of five children of Joesph and Francis (Raia) Vellone. He is survived by his wife Patricia (Brannigan) Vellone; sons Terrence (Bridget DeGroot) Vellone and Chris (Wendy) Vellone and grandchildren Dan and Alex.
After serving in the Army, Ralph became a hairdresser where he met his wife of 64 years. Together they moved to Rye with their children in 1967. Over the years Ralph owned many small businesses including a wig store, barber shop and a fundraising business – all of which allowed him to meet the many friends he made along the way.
An avid jazz and Big Band music fan, it was through his love of his town and service to the community that Ralph touched so many peoples’ lives.
Ralph was a big baseball fan, for more than 20 years Ralph was the director of the Rye Invitational Baseball Tournament, which he started. The tournament, which was attended by both college and pro scouts, showcased players in an era before highlight videos. He also served on the Rye Recreation Committee and as coach and president of the Rye Babe Ruth League.
Ralph was proud of being the driving force behind improvements to Playland Parkway after several Rye youths were hit by cars. The improvements included a lower speed limit, a walkway and speed warning lights.
Over the years he served as a Vice Chair of the United Cerebral Palsy Telethon, headed the fundraising effort for the Port Chester-Rye VAC to purchase a new ambulance, and as a proud lifelong Democrat he served as a district leader. In more recent years, Ralph served on the board of the Friends of Read Wildlife Sanctuary where he and Patty would visit most days.
Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made in Ralph’s name to Friends of Read Wildlife Sanctuary. The wake is scheduled for March 5 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Graham Funeral Home in Rye.
