Col. (Ret.) Ralph J. Martini, 80 of Rocklin CA., died Monday, July 16, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family. Ralph leaves behind his loving wife of 59 years, Audrey, and his 8 children; Carol Boals (Scott), Cathy Rogers (Stan), Joseph Martini, Lauretta Morrill (Daniel), Judith Martini Abshire, Leslie O'Neill (Dennis), Frank Martini (Lacye) and Ralph Martini, Jr. He also leaves behind 21 amazing grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren who added much joy to his life. Ralph is survived by his younger brother Dr. Victor Martini (Sue), sister in law Dorothy and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Ralph was born Sept. 26, 1931 in Niagara Falls N.Y., the son of Frank & Maria Martini. He was the 3rd child and is preceded in death by his brother Louis Martini, sister Rose Ross and brother in law John Ross. Ralph graduated from Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls N.Y. in 1950 where he was an accomplished athlete of his high schools football, basketball and baseball teams. He was awarded a football scholarship to North Carolina State, graduating in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. He was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Air Force and began his career in 1955. Ralph received a Masters of Science Degree of Logistics Management from the Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio. He retired after 26 years of Service as a Colonel. He immediately embarked on his second career with Aerojet Propulsion Corporation in Feb. 1982 and retired Feb.1995. He was proud to be of service to his country earning numerous decorations including; the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Combat Readiness Medal, National Defense Medal, Master Missleman Badge, and the Air Force Reserve Medal. We will cherish the memories of the life we shared with our Dad and Popop. A viewing will be held from 4 to 6pm at Lambert Funeral Home 400 Douglas Blvd. Roseville followed by a Rosary/Vigil at 6pm. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 10am St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church Rocklin. A private burial will follow. Donations may be made in honor of Col. Ralph J. Martini to the Air Force Memorial Foundation (703) 979-0674 or Sutter Hospice Roseville (916) 797-7850.
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