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Ralph A. Rojas

10/15/2023

Ralph A. “Archie” Rojas of Goshen, NY entered into eternal life on October 15, 2023, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Newburgh. He was 89 years old.

Born in the Bronx on June 19, 1934, he was the son of Rafael and Agustina (née Castro) Rojas, originally from Puerto Rico.

Ralph was married to Lydia Strano Rojas for 58 years. She predeceased him by less than a month.

A tireless worker, Ralph had several varied careers throughout his life: as a patrolman with the New York Police Department; as an industrial arts teacher in the New York City public schools; as an insurance agent for AAL (Aid Association for Lutherans); and as a union welder at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. He was a multi-talented man, who dedicated his life to helping his family, particularly through encouraging and supporting their educational advancement.

Ralph is survived by his brother Waldemar “Billy” Rojas; grandsons: Joseph Di Dio III and his wife Johanna, Paul Di Dio and his wife Christine, Daniel Di Dio and his wife Amy, and Ben DeBellis and his wife Aileen; great-grandchildren: Abigail, Lydia, Alessia, Chiara, and Anthony; step-daughters Lynn DeBellis and Camille Di Dio; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Isabel Wood, Doris Hildebrant, Gloria Rojas-Maier and his brother Efrain Rojas.

The family will receive friends from 2-5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 20, 2023 at Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Avenue, Warwick, NY. A funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the funeral home, followed by entombment in Ferncliff Cemetery, Hartsdale, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Ralph to the First Nations Development Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to Native American training, advocacy and education.

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At the time of funeral service we commemorate and reflect on the life of Ralph A. Rojas. In the days, weeks and months ahead it will be a comfort to family of Ralph A. Rojas to continue to remember a life well lived. Please select a date on the Calendar of Care to be reminded via email to reach out and continue the caring for family of Ralph A..

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I’m here in my office reflecting on the passing of Ralph Rojas, whom I met in 1975 when he was my police instructor at the New York City Police Academy. We have kept in touch with each other throughout the years. This time around, I called, as I usually do, by checking in with him. Much to my shock, I learned of his passing. God richly bless you, Ralph. As I know you are in the restful peace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Pax Christi, Reverend Father Robert Mercado.

Chaplain Robert Mercado, USMC
11/21/2023

I am so sorry for your loss. Archie was the best. Family was so important to him. He took care of everyone, always. He made a big difference to my dad, and kept him connected. I am grateful for the time Archie spent sharing stories about the family growing up. My thoughts are with you and Archie. He will be missed. Lisa Segarra

Lisa Segarra
10/23/2023

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Your patience and understanding is greatly appreciated . Your services to George and our family were above and beyond our expectations. Thank you never seems sufficient when the situation appears and is often overwhelming. Your concern for us and our guests will never be forgotten.

... throughout these back to back losses, your gracious concern and professionalism made the time special.

.. not only are you the best - but the town / village of Warwick respects you very much. All with good reason.

I just wanted to thank you and your staff for making Mom’s Memorial Service a success. We appreciate your professionalism and attention to detail.

I believe Mom would have been very pleased with the whole production. Thanks again for making Mom’s day a special memory for our family and friends.

Thank you for all your kindness, compassion and walking me through this very difficult journey with ease. The services were perfect and beautiful because of you. You are very special people and I will never forget you.