He was the beloved husband of the late Kathleen M. (Garille) Willis, with whom he shared 70 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2020. Born in Providence, Ralph was the son of the late Walter and Eva (Laipenis) Wasileuskas.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Ralph honorably served his country during the Korean War. As a young husband and father, he moved his family to La Mirada, California, where he pursued his career for ten years before returning to Rhode Island. Upon his return, he became co-owner and operator of Carpet Craft alongside his brother-in-law, Felix Guglielmetti. Together, they built a successful business that Ralph proudly helped lead for nearly thirty years until his retirement.
Retirement allowed Ralph and Kathleen to indulge their shared love of travel. The inseparable couple explored destinations throughout the world, embarking on countless adventures and enjoying many cruises together. Ralph was also an avid boater who cherished time spent on the water aboard The Last Straw, a boat he co-owned with his brother-in-law. Some of his happiest moments were spent boating with his son, nephews, and many dear friends. Ralph and Kathleen were also longtime members of the Smithfield Elks Lodge, where they enjoyed dancing, socializing, and creating lasting friendships.
Ralph will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Lori Tortolani and her husband, Kenneth, and Teri Rozzero and her husband, Michael Jr.; his cherished grandchildren, Sean Giles, Jill Tortolani Mammarelli, Craig Tortolani, Marc Tortolani, Nicole Verardo, and Michael Rozzero III; and his adored great-grandchildren, Olivia Giles, Gianni Verardo, and Luca Mammarelli.
He was predeceased by his beloved son, Ralph W. Willis; and his siblings, George Willis, Mary Willis, Eva Jenkins, and Ann Prochniak.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 29th from 8:30-10:30 in the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence. A Mass of Chirstian Burial will follow at 11:00 am at St. Augustine Church, 639 Mt Pleasant Ave, Providence. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Smithfield Elks Lodge No. 2359, 326 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917.
