Ralph Barbato Jr., 91, of Toms River, NJ, passed away, Saturday, October 11, 2025, in his home with his family.
Ralph was born on August 26, 1934, in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Gladys Barbato (Flannery) and Ralph Barbato. He was a hard worker, a retired printing press manager, but most of all, he was a family man. He adored his wife (who he proclaimed he would marry when they first met), and loved his children and grandchildren, whom he would do anything for. He always needed to be doing something, and when he was not making memories with his family, he was outside, tending to his yard or riding his bike around town. In general, you could not get him to sit still or stop talking for too long, even to watch a movie, but he loved baseball and hockey and could often be found watching the Mets and Rangers games. His fun loving spirit and dedication to his family will be missed dearly, but will live on through the cherished memories he’s left behind.
Ralph is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Barbato (Hecker) of Toms River, NJ, his three daughters Cathy Principe (Joe) of Whiting, NJ, Terri Budzek (Drew) of Point Pleasant, NJ, and Cindy Barbato of Toms River, NJ, five grandchildren Amanda Konopko, Christopher Konopko, Nicole Ryan (James), Ryan Budzek, Christina Barbato, and great-grandchildren Kaleigh Konopko and Jameson Ryan.
The family will be holding a private celebration of life memorial. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/amandakonopko/in-memory-of-ralph-barbato) are requested.
So sorry. My condolences to the family
Thank you so much Bob.
To : Kathy Kathyann,Terri,Cindy and family,
May you all be at peace. Ralph was and will always be remembered as a loving, special ,
Person with a big heart. He will be remembered
Always.
We will always love you Ralph
Love always, Shari,Bob,Michael,Matthew,James
Thank you Shari. We have some wonderful memories growing up with your family.
Your kinds words and thoughts are greatly appreciated.
Have been and will continue to be missing you but, I’m thinking of you often, especially all the laughs we shared together! Thinking of you always has and always will make my heart smile.
Thank you for everything over the years
Until we meet again….
With Love,
-Christopher
So sad to just learn about Ralph’s passing. He was absolutely one of the best men I’ve ever known. I’m sure he and my brother are enjoying karaoke and great times together in heaven.