Mr. Ralph K. Fava

UTICA – Mr. Ralph K. Fava, age 96, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Born in Utica on January 21, 1928, Ralph was the son of the late Ralph and Antoinette (LaMantia) Fava. He was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School and attended Central City Business Institute in Syracuse. During the WWII era, Ralph answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy, and was a seaman second class, until his honorable discharge in 1945. Ralph began his professional career with the Utica Police Department as a Patrolman and transferred to the motorcycle division, earning the nickname, “the Blue Angel.” He then went on to work with the Oneida Country Sheriff’s Department as a Seargent in the Civil Division and was a Court Attendant in Utica City Courts as well. At one point, Ralph was also the manager of Georgian Courts and South Wind Terrace, elite apartment complexes in the Utica area in the 1970s. Ralph was a man of flair and style- he always dressed sharply. He had a unique sense of humor and was the sort of man who truly enjoyed life. He also appreciated the details of fine automobiles and partook in the sports of golf and fishing. A social man, he was the last living member of the social club, the Briscoliers, and also a longstanding member of Tau Phi Zeta. In 1982, he was wed to the former Norma J. Occipinto. In addition, he had previous marriages and the blessing of children from them. Ralph is survived by his wife, Norma; and his children and their spouses, Gary R. Fava (his late mother, Anna Paladino) and his wife Zinka Fava, John Fava, Terésa and Frank Schram (John and Teresa’s mother, Carol (Pinto) Fava), and twins, James “Jimmy” Fava, and Ralph K. Fava, II, whose mother is Norma Fava. His loss is also felt by a grandson; and his brother and sister-in-law, Ronald and Tobye Fava. He held close to his heart the memory of his siblings and their spouses who preceded him, Delores and Fred Knapp, and Mary Jane and Butch Nicoletta. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and many friends, especially acknowledging Raymond Arcuri. The family extends their gratitude to the staff of the Pines at Utica Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, especially those on the 4th floor who watched over Ralph with much care, showing much affection and good humor. Ralph’s family gathered at a private time to honor his life.

Mr. Ralph K. Fava

January 21, 1928 - January 12, 2025