Final Salute

Ralph George Kuitems was born in Rochester, NY on September 9, 1931, dying peacefully November 29, 2024. He spent his childhood in St. Michael’s Parish, graduating from Edison Tech in 1949. Ralph was a Construction Superintendent for LeCesse for nearly 40 years until his retirement in 1993. In his retirement he enjoyed golf, woodworking, traveling and maintaining his 200 year-old home and Jane’s Herb Farm. He served in the Navy Seabees in Cuba and Newfoundland during the Korean Conflict. He was an avid reader with a special interest in Military History and wrote a column: Byline, Mortar Board Club, for the Labor News for several years.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jane; daughters, Ranae Hanson (Duane Delamarter), Nell Ruedin (Jason); sons, Ralph Junior and Russell (Anna); grandchildren, Chris (Oksana), Jared and Megan (Joe Mathis) Kuitems; Owen, Albert, Norah and Clinton Ruedin, Patrick Westmoreland; sister-in-law, Joan Kuitems; best friend and shop buddy, John Kuitems; great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, John and Cornelia Kuitems; his siblings and their spouses, Corrie Doyle (Bernie), Al (Phyllis), Lydia Timmons (Jack), Henry (Patricia), Jack (Grace), Vivian; half-siblings, John and Bill Kuitems, Minnie Price; son-in-law, Eric Hanson; and step-father, Bill Sauer.
A Memorial Service will be held at Spiritus Christi Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. on Saturday, December 14th at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace of God Recovery House, 120 Franklin St., Rochester, NY 14614, where Ralph spearheaded renovations in 1999.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.