Obituary of Gerald R Ragantesi

Gerald Ragantesi, 75, of Wyoming died on February 5th at Cape Canaveral hospital in Florida with his wife of forty one years, Ellyn, at his side. Jerry was born in Exeter, the son of the late Donato and Perina Gregorio Ragantesi. He attended Wyoming High School and, at seventeen, enlisted in the United States Navy. Jerry proudly served as an electrician on submarines and traveled to over fifty countries in the career that he loved. After fourteen years he received an honorable medical discharge and returned to civilian life. Jerry then worked as an appliance repairman for Radio City in Pittston. He had many friends who shared his favorite past times of fishing, motorcycle riding, grabbing a cup of coffee, and woodworking. He was always willing to help family and friends repair a broken appliance or assist with a construction project. Friends will recall his duck carvings and crochet projects, but he will probably be best remembered for his sense of humor. He loved to make people laugh and had a joke for every occasion. Jerry loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed visits from his two grandchildren, Mia and Bradley, who filled his last years with joy. He and Ellyn spent winters in Satellite Beach, Florida where they were surrounded by close friends who offered great support in his last days. He was comforted by their companionship, the devotion of his wife, and the view of the ocean. As per his wishes, Jerry will be buried at sea with full Naval military honors. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Josephine Schirano, and brother Frank Ragantesi. He is survived by his wife, Ellyn; their daughter Lisa, Philadelphia; their daughter and son-in-law Elena and David Silverman of Huntingdon Valley, PA, grandchildren Mia and Bradley Silverman; his daughter Lynda and son-in-law Bob Hartman of Grand Junction, CO, and their children and grandchildren; sister Cecilia Goldowski, Lehigh Acres, Florida; brother Rudy of Alexandria, VA; brother Daniel and his wife Jean, of Wyoming; brother William and his wife Karen of Wyoming; sister-in-law Delia Torregiani; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. A memorial mass and celebration of his life will be held at a future date.