Ralph Strom
1942 - 2023
Ralph "Pops" Strom, 80, of Meriden, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, with his beloved daughter at his side, at the VA Hospital in West Haven following a valiant battle with cancer.
Born in Middletown on December 15, 1942, he was the son of the late Ralph and Vera (Bonolo) Strom. As a young man, Ralph entered into the Air Force where he proudly served our country during the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Ralph entered the manufacturing industry as a tool maker and machinist; he worked for Prototype and Plastic Mold until receiving his diagnosis earlier this year.
Ralph had a love for restoring and tinkering with classic cars. Years ago, he was a member of the Wallingford Ford Club and had many fond memories of hanging out at the monthly car shows with his daughter and his buddies. He loved nature and enjoyed gardening delicious vegetables and beautiful flowers, as well as caring for his chickens. Above all however, Ralph was a deeply devoted and loving father who loved to spend time with his daughter and with the many children he "adopted" along the years, as he was always stepping up to mentor and care for those who needed a father figure in their lives. He was loyal and genuine to those he cared about and he will never be forgotten.
Ralph is survived by his beloved daughter and best friend, Amanda Strom of Meriden; his honorary children, Amanda Maglione of Meriden, and Eddie Soderlund of Meriden; his honorary grandson, Jason Maglione of Meriden; his best friend of over 40 years, Ray Rodrigue of Cromwell; his former wife and good friend, Linda Strom of North Haven; his loyal canine companion, Sansa; as well as his neighborhood family, extended family members and many cherished friends. He loved you all.
A memorial service and celebration of Ralphs life will take place on Sunday, September 24th at 3:00pm at VFW Post #9965, 424 Church Street, Yalesville. In lieu of flowers, donations to help fund his memorial service and final expenses may be made directly to his daughter, Amanda Strom.
Arrangements are under the direction of The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main Street Ext., Wallingford. www.wallingfordfh.com