Obituary of Ralph R. Compani

Ralph R. Compani, Jr, 78, of Palm Desert, CA, formerly a lifelong resident of Fonda, NY, passed away May 22, 2016. Born on November 26, 1937 in Amsterdam, he was the son of the late Ralph, Sr. and LaVena Loccia Compani. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Rodney "Ron" R. Compani and Francis E. Compani. Ralph grew up in Fonda and was a 1956 graduate of Fonda-Fultonville High School where he excelled in several sports. Ralph led a full life with rewarding employment initially with New York State Barge Canal System and later with New York State Thruway Authority from which he retired as a Toll Plaza Manager 1 after 35 years of service. He was very civic minded and volunteered with several local organizations including the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of America when his sons, Todd and Jeff, were active in 1970's. He was a past volunteer member of the Town of Mohawk Fire Department. He served for several years as a member, and President of the Fonda-Fultonville Central School Board. Ralph was previously a communicant of St. Cecilia's Church in Fonda where he assisted in several capacities. Ralph was also active in and supportive of many levels of local politics. He was forever proud of his small village and he participated in several activities to promote and support the village. He also served in the Army National Guard of New York at the rank of Specialist 5 E-5, Company "C" 1st Airborne, and was honorably discharged in 1962. Ralph was active for many years in the local area and statewide racing community. Starting is the 1950's at Fonda Speedway as a worker with his brother Ron, Ralph developed a true appreciation and love for the sport of racing. Eventually, he would go on to operate Fonda Speedway along with his brother Ron and his good friend Seymour Hayes. They successfully operated the speedway as a member track of D.I.R.T. For a time, the trio also owned and operated Utica-Rome Speedway in Vernon, NY. Ralph had a genuine respect for all members of the racing community from promoters, sponsors, drivers, pit crews, and most importantly the fans. Those who knew him became accustomed to his booming voice, fast paced gait, and his quick decision making style. For those who he befriended, he was always willing to help whenever needed and would give anything to make their lives better. He was a true friend to many, forever. Of all of his accomplishments, Ralph was most proud of his family. To him, they were his legacy. He and his wife, Mary (Porta) Van Heusen Compani, made their home for the last 9 years in Palm Desert, CA. They had many friends, and spent time relaxing and laughing with all of them. He was a member of the Palm Desert Greens Men's Golf Club and he enjoyed many rounds of golf with his foursome on the association links. Besides his wife, Ralph is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Erin Compani of Perth, NY; and his son, Jeffrey Compani of Aliso Viejo, CA. He has two special grandsons, Miles and Owen of Perth, NY. Ralph loved his grandsons very much, and took joy in all that they did. He and Owen had a special NFL rivalry as he favored the NY Giants and Owen the NY Jets. They shared many conversations teasing the other about team losses. Ralph and Miles talked politics, comedy and finances. He was a very proud grandfather who frequently had a story or picture to share. Ralph is also survived by his aunt Philomena Musella of Schenectady, several cousins, his brother-in-law, Fred Porta of Johnstown, and three sisters-in-law, Dawn Hayes of Tribes Hill, and Pearl Riska, and Antionette Passero, both of Johnstown. He looked forward to his annual trips home to visit with friends and family. As a life-long animal lover, his pets at home gave him much pleasure and comfort, including his beloved dog "Beemer", and cats "Lulu" and "Millie". A memorial service will be held at Jackson & Betz Funeral Home, 15 Main Street, Fultonville on Thursday, June 23, 2016at 6pm with visitations prior starting at 4pm. A private graveside service at the convenience of the family will take place at a later date At the family's request, in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Ralph's memory to St. Cecilia's Church, 26 Broadway, Fonda or to the Town of Mohawk Vol. Fire Department, 2553 State Highway 30A, Fonda.