Ralph J. Brandano's Obituary
Ralph J. Brandano, age 92, formerly of Haverhill, Massachusetts, and Salem, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 12, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona.
Born on December 7, 1932, at Clover Hill Hospital in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Ralph was the beloved son of the late Giuseppe and Magda Brandano of Haverhill, Massachusetts.
He was educated in Lawrence and Haverhill, graduating from Holy Rosary School in 1947 and Haverhill High School in 1951. In the early 1970s, he attended New Hampshire College in Salem, New Hampshire, furthering his education while balancing work, family, and community service.
A proud veteran, Ralph served his country honorably in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Over his 8½ years of active duty, he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5). He graduated from Aircraft & Engine School at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, and from Aircraft Electrical School at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois. While stationed at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, he received a Letter of Commendation for inventing an instrument that improved the jet engine preservation—or “pickling”—process, a contribution recognized for its technical ingenuity.
Following his military service, Ralph built a diverse and dedicated career. He worked with the family business, G. Brandano & Sons, later joined Raytheon Corporation in Lowell and Andover, Massachusetts, and concluded his professional career with 16 years at Lam, Inc. in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
Deeply committed to civic life, he gave generously of his time to the Salem, New Hampshire community. He was a charter member and one-term chairman of the Salem Civic Organization, served three terms on the Salem Municipal Budget Committee, and completed three terms—nine years total—on the Salem School Board, including two years as chairman. His thoughtful leadership and sense of service were defining qualities, valued by colleagues and neighbors alike.
In September 1994, Ralph relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where he enjoyed his retirement.
He was the former husband and friend of Gloria (Giardini) Brandano, formerly of Lawrence, Massachusetts. He is survived by their three children: Paul Brandano of Salisbury, Massachusetts; Cynthia Brandano of Phoenix, Arizona; and Mark Brandano and his husband, Ron Riehs Jr., of Las Vegas, Nevada; and granddogs Cody and Lilly, who he often referred to as “The Kids,” asking to give them a “pat on the head” for him. He is also survived by many relatives including nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Ralph was predeceased by his sister, Sandra (Brandano) Diodati of Gloucester, Massachusetts, and by his brothers, Dante (“Pinky”) Brandano and Joseph Brandano of
Danbury, Connecticut.
He will be remembered as a father with strong convictions, a proud veteran, and a man of inquisitiveness, craftsmanship, and integrity. A WWII history buff with a lifelong curiosity about the world, Ralph loved learning as much as he enjoyed doing. Among his favorite pastimes were family vacationing at Seabrook Beach and Lake Winnipesaukee, boating, deep-sea fishing, and woodworking—pursuits that reflected his love of the ocean, his skill with his hands, and his joy in creating and sharing. Ralph’s standard of workmanship was second to none, and being able to repair just about anything, he was often regarded as the go-to person by many. He was also a lover of Italian cuisine and cooking, taking great pleasure in preparing and sharing meals with others.
There are no plans for a service. Interment will take place at St. Mary–Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
In Ralph’s honor, memorial donations may be made to Veterans Affinity of Phoenix, Arizona, an organization that was helping his family immensely in planning for his care prior to his passing. For that, they are eternally grateful.
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