Obituary of Ralph J. Hockey

Ralph J. Hockey passed peacefully on October 24 th . He was 74 years old.

Ralph was born July 13 th , 1950, to the late John and Matilda Hockey. He and his late brother, Kenneth grew up in Clifton, NJ where he played varsity football. He attended Missouri State University on an athletic scholarship despite being accepted into several other major universities. After college, he joined the Army National Guard. In 1971 he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Benson and they started their long journey together. Soon after, they welcomed their daughter, Jennifer, followed by their son, Robert.

Ralph worked hard to provide a good life for his family and dedicated decades of service to Givaudan Roure, where he worked as a safety manager – safety in the workplace was of paramount importance to Ralph. After retirement, Ralph enjoyed increased time with family and friends. The Hockey Home was filled with fun and laughter; everyone was welcome and friendships made there lasted a lifetime.

Ralph and Barbara enjoyed traveling the country. They also had an RV “the behemoth” you could find in the parking lot at their beloved NY Jets home games. The two were devoted to each other and shared the love of music, travel, photography, and the free-spirited life of that time.

Above everything, he loved being with his family and friends; “PopPop” was certainly his proudest title. Ralph was quick-witted and loved to make others laugh with his pranks and antics; his playful and loving spirit will never leave us.

Amid a busy life, Ralph found the time to serve his community alongside his wife, Barbara, as EMT’s on the East Hanover First Aid Squad for many years. Ralph also served on the American Red Cross, helping the community and organizing special events. He was ambitious with his career endeavors, once owning his own pizzeria and vending machine business.

Ralph was predeceased by his beloved wife Barbara and their adored son Robert; he leaves joyful memories to his devoted daughter Jennifer Hodierne and her husband Thomas; his daughter in law Colleen, his grandchildren Justine (Andre), Terry (Casey), Caitlyn (Jonathan), Alyssa and Robbie; his great grandchildren Adrianna, Rayleigh and Felix and many more dear relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held, appropriately on mischief night, Wednesday, October 30th from 4pm – 7pm at S.J. Priola. A prayer service will begin at 6:30 that evening.
 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the ASPCA or your local Animal Shelter are appreciated.