RALPH J. STUKOWSKI JR.

Ralph J. Stukowski, Jr., 68, of Auburn, passed away Saturday, December 10th 2011 in the Millbury Health Care Center, with his loving family by his side.

Ralph was born October 15th, 1943 in Worcester, a son of Ralph Stukowski, Sr. and Catherine (Waskowicz) Stukowski. He graduated from the former Commerce High School class of 1961 and attended Peru State in Nebraska where he played football with his twin brother Ralph, then joined the U.S. Army to serve his country as a Vietnam era veteran and proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division and has lived in Auburn many years.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 29 years, Sheila (Grant) Stukowski; a son, Patrick Stukowski, of Webster; two brothers, his twin Rob Stukowski and his wife Rita of Worcester, Edward Stukowski and his wife Barbara of Leicester; a granddaughter, Arianna Stukowski and her Mom Lindsey Openshaw of Webster; several brothers and sisters in law; his very best friends, Christopher Hartzell and wife Paula (Grant) of Oxford, Charles Grant of Worcester, Kevin Grant and wife Nancy of Spencer, and Debra Paul of Worcester; many nephews, nieces with whom he was very close, extended family and friends. Ralph was predeceased by his grandson, Mason Stukowski and a younger brother, Eugene.

Ralph worked in construction for more than 40 years. He began with Granger Brothers Company in Worcester, then for the last 29 years for Gilbane Construction in Providence R.I. before retiring. During all these years, Ralph left his mark in Worcester, overseeing the construction of the Worcester Convention Center, Worcester City Scapes and his most proud accomplishment being the New Worcester County Court House.

Ralph had a passion for gardening which showed in his vegetable and flower gardens. He was a friend of Bill W. for 34 years. Nothing made him happier than spending time in Maine especially floating down the Ogunquit River with his son Patrick and his two nephews Kevin and Jared. He was also an avid Patriots and Red Sox fan.

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Tuesday, December 13th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be celebrated Wednesday, December 14th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 a.m in St Joseph Church, 189 Oxford St., Auburn. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the ICU units at Umass Medical Center and The Millbury Health Care Center for their wonderful compassionate and loving care of Ralph and his family during this difficult time.