Ralph Joseph "Joe" Marotta, Jr.

Ralph Joseph Marotta, 64 of Winter Garden, FL passed away in his home on Sunday, October 5, 2014 after a courageous battle with kidney cancer. He was born on July 2, 1950 in Niceville, FL, the son of Ralph and Jean Marotta. He married the love of his life, Josie Marotta on October 14, 1969 in Orlando, FL.

He is survived by his wife, Josie; his daughter, Michelle Ribar and husband Mele; his son, Brian Marotta and wife Nicole; his grandchildren Ashton, Kendall, Morgan and Bryn Marotta and his sister, Gloria Miller.

Ralph “Joe” graduated from Colonial High school in 1968. After high school he joined the military where he remained in service for 22 years. After retirement from the US Army he returned to Central Florida working with Pentair, formerly Aquatic Eco-Systems until 2011.

Joe loved life to the fullest and whenever he was asked what he was thankful for his response was always, “Everything”. Joe enjoyed sports. When his children were younger he loved coaching his son’s sports teams and being involved with his daughter’s activities. He also enjoyed playing golf, boating, watching movies and above all spending time with his family. Joe was sincere, caring and touched the lives of everyone he knew in a special way. He will be missed.

His family will have a 2:00 mass at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Winter Park in honor of Joe on Thursday, October 16. At 3:15 there will be the funeral ceremony at The Gardens in Glen Haven, Winter Park and following, at 4:00 there will be a gathering at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church for a Celebration of Life.