Ralph J. Aktarian, 78, of Worcester passed away July,4, 2009 in the UMASS Memorial Hospital. He was a retired Worcester firefighter. Ralph is survived by his two loving daughters Joyce Sullivan and her husband Jim “Sully” Sullivan of Worcester and Sandra Aktarian of North Oxford, five grandchildren whom he loved and adores, Bryan, Bryanna, Robert, Amanda ,and Arrianne. A sister Jennie Geissdorfer and her husband Walter, and a nephew Walter all of Virginia, His forever loving wife of 57 years Viola “Mimi” Aktarian predeceased Ralph in 2008 and a son Allen Aktarian died in 1998.

    Ralph was a devoted father, grandfather and a friend to many, and will be sadly missed as he passes over to join his loved ones. Ralph was born in Worcester son of the late Leon and Raffaella (Gentile) Aktarian and lived here all his life. He was a Graduate of Commerce High School class of 1949. He worked for N.E. Manufacturing as a supervisor be fore entering the Navy in 1952 Honorably discharged, he was stationed in Norfolk VA. on the USS Liddle LST 509. In 1966 Ralph was honored to become a Worcester Firefighter and was stationed at the Waldo St. station Engine 1 before retiring in 1976.

    Ralph had a special passion for his family and friends, neighborhood gatherings, fishing, gardening, “his tomatoes”, golf , cookouts, vacations and trips to Cape Cod with his family and fishing buddies. He was a long time member of the Brown Square Civic Club where he would cook for the members and enjoyed his Friday nights with the guys. He was a long time standing member of the Worcester Firefighters Relief Association.

    In honor of his passing we ask that you celebrate his new life and to remember all the good times and laughter in his memory, that was shared amongst family and friends.

    Ralph’s funeral service will be held Thursday at 11:AM in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. Calling hours will be held from 5-8PM on Wednesday. Interment will be alongside his wife in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place. Memphis TN. 38105.