Ralph F. Conte

Waterville-Ralph F. Conte, 83, passed away peacefully at home with the love and support of his family at his side, on Saturday, May 25, 2024.

Born on June 24, 1940, in Utica. The son of the late Frank and Margaret Rose Conte.

Ralph was raised in Waterville and was a graduate of Waterville High School where he met, and later married Sandra Cook on August 8, 1959. The love of his life.

Even through his final days, Ralph was strong-willed and determined to accomplish any obstacle in his way. His work ethic, and perseverance lead him to the success as the proud business owner of Caution Equipment, installing fire safety equipment for major companies across NY. In his later years, he retired from a long and successful season of selling cars.

Many will remember Ralph for the extreme passion he had for classic cars. Mopars to be specific! You could find him attending car shows with his latest and sharp, spotless hot rod shined up for show. With family members near, specifically his detailer and sidekick Michael, his beloved grandson. Ralph took pride in the results he gained from the many custom drag race cars he built through the years, while collecting lifelong relationships with so many along the way. Ralph was also a well-known member of the NHRA, The National Hot Rod Association. One of his numerous highlights, at the age of 61, he won the Mopar Nationals in Englishtown, NJ against some of the nation's best youngsters! In addition to cars, Ralph was also known for his ability to shoot a winning game of pool, maintaining a high bowling score, and his ability to effortlessly roller skate all while owning his own bowling ball and pair of skates. He was a true natural to anything he touched and could often be heard saying “do it right, or don’t do it at all”.  He truly lived by that phrase. Ralph leaves behind a legacy of not only love for his family, but his bold sense of humor, wisdom, and his honest yet caring nature. He will be remembered as a mentor to many.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sandy; his daughters, Shari (John) Ramsey and Michele (Lee) Grant; his granddaughter Amy (Matt) Chavis; his grandson Michael (Ann Marie) Walton; his great grandchildren Rylin (Danielle) Turley, Wyatt and Colt Kimball; his younger brother Robert (Sue) Conte; and his nephew Dana Conte.

He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Margaret.

In keeping with Ralph’s wishes, services are private and at the convenience of his family. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate personal and professional care of Jeffrey T. Paul, Director, of the Paul Funeral Home of Madison.

To offer a condolence or share a memory, please visit: paulfuneralhome.net