Obituary of Ralph Tapino

Ralph Tapino, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, in Staten Island, New York.

He was born on May 9, 1938, in Mola di Bari, Italy, to Paolo Tapino and Elisabetta Tapino (née Benvenuto). Ralph spent his early years in Mola di Bari before immigrating to the United States at the age of 17. With remarkable determination and resilience, he worked, learned English, and pursued his education simultaneously- laying the foundation for a life defined by perseverance and achievement.

Ralph earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from the City College of New York and later an MBA from Baruch College. He went on to build a distinguished 40-year career with Con Edison, where he served as a Divisional Manager and was widely respected for his leadership, integrity, and mentorship. He took great pride in helping others succeed, tutoring friends and family in mathematics and guiding many colleagues toward meaningful careers.

Ralph was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Johanna Tapino (née Pittorino). He was a proud and loving father to Paul Tapino and his wife Erika, and to his late daughter, Elizabeth Tapino. He was a cherished grandfather to Elisabetta, Nicholas, and Thomas Tapino, who brought him immense joy and pride.

A man of deep kindness and generosity, Ralph was always willing to lend a helping hand. His warmth, humility, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He had a lifelong passion for soccer, playing in Italy, in college, and on numerous club teams in Brooklyn. He later shared that passion with others, founding the soccer program at St. Adalbert Elementary School in Staten Island, where he became known as an exceptional coach and mentor to countless young athletes.

Ralph was deeply committed to his community. He was an active member of St. Adalbert’s Parish, where his faith guided his life. He also served on the boards of several community organizations, including the Lions Club of Staten Island, where he played a leading role in organizing charitable events and supporting those in need.

Ralph will be remembered for the life he built through hard work, the love he gave so freely to his family, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity, guidance, and quiet acts of kindness. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the family he cherished, and the community he helped strengthen. He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Parkinson’s Foundation:

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9235503&fr_id=154020&pg=personal

https://secure.parkinson.org/site/TR/Tributes/General?pg=personal&px=3293459&fr_id=5906