Ralph Iannessa a lifelong Medford resident died at the New England Rehabilitation Hospital on Sunday. He was 90.
The son of the late Arturo and Adelina (Colella) Iannessa, Ralph played the trumpet since his youth. A member of the Army Band, he served in the European and Pacific Theatres during World War II. In addition to his combat duty, he performed at the Hollywood Canteen with Lena Horn. After the war he continued to play with local bands including 2 Scotches, a Rye plus 1, and the Montvale Plaza house band. He worked as an upholsterer until taking over the operation of his father-in-law’s restaurant, Luigi’s on Broad Street in down-town Boston. Ralph was dedicated to his community and as a member of the American Legion, he played Taps at many veterans’ funerals and civic events. He was also a longtime member of the Medford Lodge of Elks.
The beloved husband of Mildred "Mimi" (Gallo) with whom he shared 66 years of marriage, he was a devoted father to Stephen Iannessa and his wife Janice of Medford and the late Ralph Iannessa Jr. He was a loving grandfather to Gina and Mark Antidormi of Lynnfield, Maria Iannessa Sfikas and Peter of Lynnfield, Stephen and Jackie Iannessa of North Reading. He leaves his loving great-grandchildren: Niccolo’ and Giada Antidormi; and Stephen Sfikas. He was the dear brother of Arthur Iannessa the late Alice Generazzo and Alfred Iannessa.
His funeral will be from the Dello Russo Funeral Homes, 306 Main St, Medford, Wednesday July 3rd at 8 AM followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High Street, Medford at 9 AM Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may visit at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 4 until 8. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Ralph’s name to a charity of One’s choice