With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ralph A. Grizanti, 86, of Lewiston, New York, who peacefully passed away on July 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Niagara Falls, New York, Ralph was the beloved son of the late Cosmo and Ella (Fontanarosa) Grizanti.

Ralph was the definition of a self-made man. Self-taught, hardworking, and someone who always believed in doing things “by the book,” he took great pride in everything he did. Whether he was fixing something, teaching someone a new skill, or offering advice, he believed there was always a right way to do it—and he was always willing to help others learn. He was dependable, generous with his knowledge, and always the first-person family and friends turned to when they needed help.

On October 29, 1960, Ralph married the love of his life, Victoria A. Kudela. Together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, tradition, and unconditional love. Their marriage was an example of devotion and commitment, and even after Victoria’s passing on December 13, 2006, he continued to honor the life they shared together.

In his early years, he worked at Walker’s Laundry before spending many years with St. Johnsbury Trucking, where his commitment to safety earned him multiple Million Mile Safe Driving Awards—a testament to his professionalism, strong work ethic, and unwavering sense of responsibility.

Outside of work, Ralph pursued many passions. He loved drag racing. As a lifetime member of the 3F Club, he enjoyed skeet shooting with his son, was an accomplished gunsmith, and became well known for his famous reloading recipes.

He was a proud member of the NRA. Ralph was a die-hard Chevrolet enthusiast who could talk cars for hours with anyone willing to listen. One of his greatest hobbies was maintaining his aquariums, especially raising angelfish. Ralph also looked forward to the annual St. Feliciano celebrations, where family traditions, great food, laughter, and togetherness meant everything to him.

Above all else, Ralph loved his family. He was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved most. Whether it was a holiday, birthday, graduation, sporting event, race, recital, or simply sitting around together, Ralph never wanted to miss a moment. He was everyone’s biggest cheerleader, always encouraging, always supportive, and always present. His love for his family was the foundation of his life, and his greatest pride was watching each generation grow.

Ralph is survived by his loving children: Judith (Michael) Janese, Betsy (Robert) Best, Nancy (Donald) Heitler, and Ralph (Elizabeth) Grizanti Jr.

He was the proud and devoted grandfather of Laura (Joseph) Scarfone, Michael (Katie) Janese, Samantha (William) Hall, Donald Heitler, Robert Heitler, and Ralph Grizanti III.

He was also the cherished great-grandfather of Victoria Scarfone, Joseph Scarfone, Cora Janese, Fallon Janese, and Eloise Hall, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

Ralph’s kindness, wisdom, humor, unwavering work ethic, and unconditional love leave behind a legacy that will continue to live on through the family he cherished so deeply. He taught those around him the value of hard work, integrity, loyalty, and always showing up for the people you love. His presence could light up a room, his advice was always honest, and his love for his family was endless.

The Grizanti family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and everyone who cared for Ralph with such compassion during his final days. Your kindness, dignity, and support brought comfort not only to Ralph but to all who loved him.

Although our hearts are broken, we find peace in knowing Ralph has been reunited with the love of his life, Victoria. His memory will forever live on in the stories we tell, the traditions we continue, and the love he instilled in all of us.

A life well lived. A family well loved. A legacy that will live on for generations.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 14 from 3 – 7 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, where funeral services will begin on Wednesday, July 15 at 11:30 AM, followed by Ralph’s Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 PM St. Peter’s Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.