Ralph Joseph Fortucci

Ralph J. Fortucci, age 85 died Friday July 26, 2013 at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Clinton Township Michigan. Ralph was born August 12, 1927 in Detroit Michigan the son of the late Giuseppe Fortucci and the late Maria (nee: Tortolani) Fortucci.Ralph was raised in Warren and later served his country in the United States Army having attained the rank of Corporal Tec 4 during World War II. Following his faithful and honorable service to Country, Ralph returned to Michigan and went to work for the Ford Motor Company. Ralph worked for over 34 years as a Machine Repairman primarily at the Mound Road Plant in Sterling Heights before retiring.When Ralph was not working he was a constant tinkerer and mechanic. He loved to work on and fix or improve just about anything from cars to his home or cottage. Legend has it that Ralph was the first assembler of the Detroit HotRods in the Metro Detroit area. He also loved music and was self taught playing by ear the accordion, harmonica, guitar, and keyboards. He loved being in the center of huge family gatherings where everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves. During his many trips with family to his cottage in Northern Michigan, Ralph reconnected with the solitude of the outdoors and cherished the time just watching the deer and many animals. Even while at home he always asked his children why they didn't bring over their animals to visit.Ralph also held his family as his pride and joy and even the neighborhood children referred to him as "Papa". He truly loved children and during Christmas loved to dress as Santa and entertain the kids. He also had a kind gentle soul and never complained even when very sick. He always remembered the family vacation road trips to many parts of the country as wonderful learning experiences for the children.Ralph was the beloved husband of Elizabeth "Betty" Fortucci, and is also survived by his dear children and many loving family members and friends. Visitation for Mr. Fortucci will be Monday July 29th from 10am until the time of the Funeral Service at 12:30pm, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. Please share memories of Ralph at his guest book.