Obituary: Ralph E. 'Chink' Marden

Ralph E. 'Chink' Marden, 97, of East Greenwich, passed away peacefully from this life on May 16, surrounded by his loving family. Ralph was born on March 27, 1916, in Attleboro, Mass., the son of Ralph and Maude E. (Purdy) Marden.

A graduate of East Greenwich Academy, he attained the rank of master sergeant in the U.S. Army during WWII. Ralph married Mary J. Moretti on August 29, 1942, and together they raised six children.

An electrician by trade, he retired from Electric Boat and was active in his community, especially Boy Scouts and Little League.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years Mary, and his children, Barbara Bluto, Ralph V. Marden, Carol M. Chasse, David M. Marden, Linda J. Cummings (Steven), and Marcia Rogers (William), 19 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren and a sister-in–law, Claire Moretti. Ralph was predeceased by his parents and two sisters. 

Ralph will be remembered for his unmatched generosity and kindness to all as well as his unfailing wit.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Mercy Church, 65 Third St., East Greenwich. Burial with military honors will be in the R.I. Veterans Cemetery in Exeter. Calling hours are Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main St., East Greenwich. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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