Ralph Joseph Vartuli Sr., 81, of Hayesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Melbourne, Fla., on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016.
He was born in Winooski, Vt., on Nov. 29, 1934, to the late Joseph and Felice Sette Vartuli.
He was the youngest of eight children. He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael J. Vartuli; and sisters, Mary Mathon, Josephine Menginie and Madeline Kalvoda.
He is survived by his brothers, Dominic Vartuli and his wife, Lorraine, of Fishkill N.Y.; Frank Vartuli of Mount Kisco, N.Y., and Katherine Scott, of Essex Junction, Vt.
He also is survived by his wife of 47 years, Helen Vartuli; five children, Ralph J. Vartuli Jr. of Murphy, Julia Vartuli Rigsby and husband Mark of Melbourne, Fla., Anthony Vartuli and wife Renee of Atlanta, Ga., Andrew Vartuli of Murphy, and Joseph Vartuli and wife Kim of Hayesville; and his little dog, Mitzi.
He was a grandfather to seven grandchildren and great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
He worked as a car salesman in Murphy for many years and after retirement enjoyed selling things from his booth at the flea market. He had a strong work ethic and loved his family and would do anything for them.
Ralph will always be remembered for his generosity and willingness to help anyone in need. He was an avid fisherman and always had a ready smile.
At his request, his ashes will be taken to Vermont at a later date.
Consider the Alzheimer’s Foundation if you would like to donate in his name or the ASPCA, as these were charities close to his heart.