Ralph J. Gavini 1947-2025

Ralph was born on April 18, 1947, in Youngstown, a son of the late Joseph F. and Elsie B. Gasper Gavini, and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1967, and proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his service, Ralph worked as a steelworker at McDonald Steel for many years, before retiring in 2010.

He was a dedicated and hardworking man who found great joy in the simple pleasures of life — especially cooking and gardening. Known for his delicious Italian dishes, Ralph’s specialties included wedding soup, spaghetti sauce, biscotti and stuffed peppers. He often cooked with vegetables and herbs he grew himself, continuing to garden even while living in his apartment, where he lovingly grew the plants he passed on to his daughter, once they outgrew his space. Ralph also enjoyed being outdoors — walking, camping and tending to his garden were among his favorite pastimes.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Dolores Scoville Gavini; his daughter and son-in-law, Tracy and William Harris of Austintown; and his cherished grandchildren, Hannah Harris and Matthew Harris. He also leaves behind his sister, Laura Asti of Boardman.

A military service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in the chapel at Calvary Cemetery, Youngstown.

(special notice)