First Posted: 2/17/2013

Gerald Ragantesi, 75, of Wyoming, died on Feb. 5 at Cape Canaveral Hospital in Florida with his wife of 41 years, Ellyn, at his side.

Jerry was born in Exeter, a son of the late Donato and Perina Gregorio Ragantesi.

He attended Wyoming High School and, at 17, enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Jerry proudly served as an electrician on submarines and traveled to more than 50 countries in the career that he loved. After 14 years, he received an honorable medical discharge and returned to civilian life. Jerry then worked as an appliance repairman for Radio City in Pittston.

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He had many friends who shared his favorite pastimes of fishing, motorcycle riding, grabbing a cup of coffee and woodworking. He always was willing to help family and friends repair a broken appliance or assist with a construction project. Friends will recall his duck carvings and crochet projects; but he probably will be best remembered for his sense of humor. He loved to make people laugh and had a joke for every occasion.

Jerry loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed visits from his two grandchildren, Mia and Bradley, who filled his last years with joy. He and Ellyn spent winters in Satellite Beach, Fla., where they were surrounded by close friends who offered great support in his last days. He was comforted by their companionship, the devotion of his wife and the view of the ocean.

As per his wishes, Jerry will be buried at sea with full naval military honors.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Josephine Schirano, and brother, Frank Ragantesi.

He is survived by his wife, Ellyn; their daughter, Lisa, Philadelphia; their daughter and son-in-law, Elena and David Silverman, Huntingdon Valley, Pa.; grandchildren, Mia and Bradley Silverman; his daughter, Lynda and son-in-law, Bob Hartman, Grand Junction, Colo., and their children and grandchildren; sister, Cecilia Goldowski, Lehigh Acres, Fla.; brother, Rudy, Alexandria, Va.; brother, Daniel and his wife, Jean, Wyoming; brother, William and his wife, Karen, Wyoming; sister-in-law, Delia Torregiani; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial Mass and celebration of his life will be held at a future date.

Condolences may be left at www.beachfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Beach Funeral Home, Indian Harbour Beach, Fla.