Ralph John Caro-Capolungo

CARO-CAPOLUNGO RALPH JOHN it is with deep sadness that both the Capolungo and Caro Family mourns the death of Ralph John Caro-Capolungo. He was a husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and beloved friend. He shared his life with family and friends for almost 77 years. He managed to live three years longer than the doctors diagnosed him to live due to his faith and prayer life. He faced the terminal illness-lung cancer with dignity, vigor and a zest for living utilizing advanced modern medicine techniques along with homeopathic forms of medicine. God's awesome timing allowed close family members to pray over him at his bedside in Oakland just moments before he joined his father in heaven on Friday, June 15. His passing was peaceful and his room was filled with much love. Ralph was born in Southern CA on July 8, 1924. Committed to his country, he served in the United States Navy as a first class fire fighter in World War II. In 1948, his meticulous approach to detail coupled with an artistic and creative side led him to the University of Southern CA where he double majored in engineering and music. His education continued at Hartford, Connecticut School of Seminary where he earned a bachelors degree in "Divinity". He spent many years of his life as the senior pastor of the United Churh of Christ and passionately pursued civil rights issued that he held so dear to his heart. He actively played a part in integrating the "Jim Crow Barber Shops" and was fortunate enough to march with Martin Luther King Jr. in the civil rights marches in Selma, Alabama. While living in Salem Oregon, he was selected and received the ""Man of the Year'' award. His incredible depth of faith was instrumental in counseling prisoners, facing life sentences. The hours he volunteered either at his church or in his community could not be counted. While serving as President of the RSVP (Retired Seniors Volunteer Program) in Alameda County at Laney College, he was the pioneer of implementing new successful programs across the Bay area. He was survived by his "Angel" and wife of 27 years, Frances along with his children: Carol, Stephen, Lorraine, Paul, John, Maria-Elena, Alberto and Marco. He also was survived by 13 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. The list of friends whose lives he touched is too long to note. Burial will be private, but a memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, June 23 at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 1707 Bourdin Road in Montclair. Alameda Times-Star 6/20/01.