Obituary of Ralph J. Loretta

RALPH J. LORETTA IWO JIMA VETERAN Ralph J. Loretta, 84, pased away peacefully on February 20, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Bridgeton where he grew up, Ralph was a long time Vineland resident. Ralph worked in the clothing industry in Vineland during its heyday in the 1950's. He was an independent owner-operator in the trucking industry for 30 years and was employed as a heavy equipment operator for the City of Vineland until he retired. Ralph's affinity for heavy equipment began in the Marines where he learned to operate amphibious tanks. He joined the Marines after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and say action in four major South Pacific campaigns: Guam, Guadalcanal, Bougainville, and Iwo Jima. There was a large group photo taken at the top of Mr. Suribachi after the famous flag raining that can be seen in the book "Flags of Our Father's". Ralph can be seen on the far left as the young Marine with the helmet raised, identified in the caption as "unknown Marine". But Ralph is far from unknown. Loved by family and friends, Ralph was a man's man who could often be found in his garage welding and tinkering. Friends and family will remember the Loretta's warm hospitality, sitting around the table with a cup of coffee. Respected and adored by his children, they will especially remember him for the Marine Corp discipline and work ethic he instilled. "Got a Minute?" surely meant more than a few hours work on some project with him. Your word is your bond. Dont's start something unless you're going to finish it. Get the job done and do it right. Can do. SEMPER FI DAD. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Jennie (Polizzi) Loretta; sons Jim Loretta and wife Patti and Frank Loretta and his wife Sallie. Daughter Lorianna Delaney and husband Dan He was predeceased by his youngest daughter Janine Little. Ralph is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.