Chandler Funeral Homes & Crematory Logo

302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Ralph E. Marcozzi

Ralph E. Marcozzi passed away peacefully on May 13, 2024, at the age of 92.

Ralph was born in 1931, in Pottstown, PA, to his parents Gaetano and Felicia “Anna” Pace. He and his family moved to Wilmington when he was 11 years old in 1942. Ralph was fortunate to have a long, healthy, and wonderful life.

He graduated from Wilmington High School in 1949, where he was affectionately known as “Sunny” because of his big smile. After graduation, he worked until he re-enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was eventually stationed there for several years.

Upon his return to the U.S., he continued working for the James Julian Company as a construction supervisor. He later became a partner of the LML corporation, followed by working with Marcozzi Enterprises. He and his son Chris established Sanco Construction from which he fully retired at the age of 75.

Ralph was married to his wife, Esther (Santagata) in 1958. They raised two children in the first (and only) house they ever bought.

Ralph had many friends and enjoyed most of his time with them during his daily visits to the Hollywood Grille and Urban Kitchen. His other pastimes were his trips to Atlantic City, Delaware Park, and other casinos.

He also enjoyed his yearly trips to Fort Lauderdale with his wife, sister-in-law, and brother-in-law. Of course, he loved spending time with his grandchildren, especially when they were young.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents and sister, Clara. He and Esther enjoyed 62 years of marriage prior to her passing in 2020.

Ralph is survived by his children Shelly Ploener and Christopher (Susan) Marcozzi. He is also survived by his two brothers, Ronald and Vincent, and his four grandchildren whom he adored, Jason Oerman, Kimberly Marcozzi, and Amanda and Arthur (AJ) Ploener. Additionally, he is survived by his many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for Dr. James Fierro, Dr. William Lee, and his favorite nurse, Karen at Dr. Fierro’s office.

Send a Condolence Light a Candle Send Flowers Print Out Obituary

Funeral Services

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday May 18th, 2024, at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803. Visiting hours will be held from 9-11:00AM. Interment will follow at St. Joseph on the Brandywine Cemetery, 10 Old Church Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807.

Condolences

    Frank Collins lit a candle and writes,
    A peaceful ending of a wonderful life of a man who built a successful business a beautiful family. Even at 92 it was easy to see why his friends called him "Sunny". His warm smile always lit up the room. He will be greatly missed.
    05/14/2024 04:12 pm
    JAMES FIERRO lit a candle and writes,
    I cannot recall anyone who did not like Mr. Marcozzi. Sunny was an appropiate nickname. I have many fond memories of Mr. Marcozzi, with my dad, Tony, and his brother in law Leo. They are now together again with their wives in that Big Casino in the sky, and they are all Winners! Mr. Marcozzi was a good and honorable man and he will surely be missed by everyone who knew him. He was a member of the greatest generation and to know him, you know why it was the greatest generation: God, Family and Country was their motto. God Bless the Marcozzi Family during this sad time, and God Bless Mr. Marcozzi. May he rest in eternal peace and comfort with the Lord and with his wife, parents, family and friends in Heaven. Dr. James & MarySue Fierro
    05/14/2024 04:24 pm
    John J Samluk lit a candle and writes,
    So sorry to hear of the loss of Ralph. I remember him from growing up on Linden Street, he was always such a great guy. I'm sure he'll be missed. In sympathy, John J Samluk
    05/14/2024 05:38 pm
    Lilian Thierens writes,
    A beautiful picture of a beautiful man 🙏 Thinking of all the family at this very sad time. Sending love to all. From Lilian in the UK🇬🇧
    05/14/2024 05:48 pm
    Karen Kaminski writes,
    My most sincere condolences to the entire Marcozzi family. My heart is heavy with the loss of such a kind, generous, “salt of the earth” type of man. He always had a 1000 watt smile and a hug ready for me no matter how he felt. It truly was a pleasure and a privilege to care for Mr. “My Most Handsome Patient” Marcozzi.
    05/14/2024 06:16 pm
    Mark pace lit a candle and writes,
    You were truly one of the good guys ..you will truly be missed by many .I can here your laughter now with you reunited with Easter. Mum . Dad and your sister you always made me and my family welcome from day one may you now rip.till one day we meet again 😮‍💨
    05/14/2024 07:12 pm
    Louise Jones lit a candle and writes,
    Never a more cheery and joyful couple have I ever met. I was truly blessed and honored to be in the presence of you parents. I loved sitting by them at AJ's and Trey's soccer games. And the numerous other gatherings. You are absolutely a lovely family.
    05/14/2024 07:40 pm
    RINALDO & VIVIEN MARCOZZI lit a candle and writes,
    RALPH'S LEGACY OF KINDNESS AND LOVE WILL CONTINUE TO INSPIRE US ALL. HIS SHINING PERSONALITY WILL LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS. HE WAS AN AMAZING PERSON AND HAD A REMARKABLE LIFE. WE WILL FIND STRENGTH AND SOLACE IN THE MEMORIES OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHARED TOGETHER WITH HIM. RALPH WAS MY COUSIN, AND WE SHARED SOME GOOD TIMES WITH OUR FAMILIES. I WILL MISS HIM DEARLY. RINALDO & VIVIEN MARCOZZI
    05/14/2024 09:52 pm
    Ross Iudica lit a candle and writes,
    We are so sorry to read of Ralph’s passing. Having known Ralph for over 65 years I can truly say he was a kind gentle man who will truly be missed. We extend our sympathy to all of his family and friends.
    05/15/2024 08:41 am
    Jacqueline m durborow writes,
    My sympathy to the Marcozzi family, especially to Ronnie. I have known Ronnie for years. I believe I have even talked to Ralph at The Hollywood Grill. He may have known my Dad, Roland Marcozzi. I believe Ralph’s Dad. & my Dad were cousins. Prayers to all. Jacqueline Marcozzi Durborow
    05/15/2024 02:10 pm
    Joseph O. Bunce III lit a candle and writes,
    I first met Ralph through his brother Ron Marcozzi. Jane and I were fortunate enough to buy a house right next to the Marcozzi's. He was the best neighbor that any person could ask for. And I always tried to have breakfast with him at the Hollywood Grill in north Wilmington after I had my tests for my AIC. He usually had breakfast there every morning. He will be missed. I always asked Dr. Fiero how he was doing after I had my visits with his staff. Joseph O. Bunce III
    05/15/2024 04:08 pm
    Jeff & Vera Ciszkowski lit a candle and writes,
    To Chris, Shelly and extended family, Our sincerest condolences. We're praying for your family at this difficult time. Sending our Love and prayers. Jeff & Vera 🙏🏼
    05/15/2024 08:58 pm
    Richard Stat lit a candle and writes,
    Chris, so sorry for your loss. Wishing you strength.
    05/16/2024 12:38 pm
    Nikki Rapposelli lit a candle and writes,
    Chris, Shelly and family, my sincere condolences to your families. My thoughts and prayers are with you all through this difficult time. I can see why he was known as "Sunny" because of that smile he always seemed to have on his face whenever you saw him. Sending love and prayers.
    05/16/2024 12:47 pm
    Anne Dougherty lit a candle and writes,
    I'm so sorry for your loss. My mom's (Holly) sister was my Uncle Ronny's wife, Monnie, so I remember the whole family from when we were little and visited my Aunt and Uncle. Prayers for you all! He definitely had a Sunny smile.
    05/16/2024 04:03 pm

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

When you "Light a Candle" the candle image is posted with your condolence.

Thank You

Your online condolence will appear once approved by our site administrator.