Ralph L. Gesek

Schenectady - Ralph L Gesek, 95, passed away peacefully after a short illness, with his sons and loved one sitting by his bedside, on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Born in Schenectady, he was the son of the late Marcel and Anastasia Gesek. He is the brother to Stanley, Julius, Al, Mary, Emily, and Clem, who have all predeceased him, and is survived by his sister Stephanie, in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Ralph was wedded to his first love, Christine Gesek (Restifo), in 1954 and enjoyed 47 years of marriage in the home he built for her on Putnam Rd, when tragically she succumbed to cancer too young and predeceased him in 2002. They are survived by their two sons, David Gesek (Debby) and James Gesek (Barbara). Also survived by their grandchildren, Ashley Martinsen (David), Sarah Vacca (William); and Jude, Samuel, Benjamin, and Ana Gesek. And, great-grandchildren, Camilla and Georgia Vacca.

Ralph is a veteran of the United States Army, and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. He worked the majority of his career as the Maintenance Director for the chain of Hallmark Nursing Centers. He was most proud to be the Commander of the James Duane VFW Post 2303 in Delanson, and he also enjoyed being the Cubmaster for the Cub Scouts Pack 54. He was an avid bowler, and he and Christine could be found every Monday without fail at Sportsman's Bowl in the Monday Nite Mixed League. He was a true outdoorsman, hunter, camper, farmer, cowboy wanderer, builder, and all around handyman, with the ability to fix literally anything. And, who often ran without hesitation anytime a member of the extended family or friend needed some help or advice. Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Lastly, Ralph is also survived by his beloved partner in life and constant companion, Cathy Lemerise, who took wonderful care of him, in sickness and in health, these last 14 years, and especially so in the last couple of years as his aging body required more dependent care, and Cathy was there for him at every turn, day and night.

Open Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2024 from 10am - 11:30am at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. A short Catholic Chapel Service will immediately follow beginning at 11:30am at the funeral home, then followed by Interment at St. Joseph's Cemetery, King's Rd, Schenectady, where he will be laid to rest next to Christine in the family plot.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family asks that contributions be made towards a Boston Medical Fund for Ralph's daughter-in-law, Debby, who has struggled with her own serious health issues for many years, and who is currently on the donor list for a much needed transplant to be performed in Boston. A fund is being established to help offset the travel and medical costs associated. Arrangements for any donations can be made with New Comer or with James Gesek directly, and is very much appreciated by the family, as are all thoughts and prayers.