Benjamin Ralph Coscarella

Beloved Lifetime Resident of Salida. Benjamin “Ralph” Coscarella, 81, passed away after brief stay at HRRMC on March 2, 2023. Ralph was born at DRG Railroad Hospital in Salida on October 16, 1941. Ralph grew up in Nathrop on the family ranch until he was 14, when the family moved to Salida. He graduated from Salida High School, and at the age of 17 he entered the Air Force and became a Russian Interpreter stationed in Turkey. He remained in the air force for 5 years, extended through the Cuban Crisis. After returning home from the service, he resided in Denver where he met the Love of his life and was married July 25, 1969. Together they started a family, then moved back to his hometown of Salida in 1976. He worked as a crane operator in Denver until transferring to Salida. Upon transferring to Salida, Ralph worked as a hydro mechanic at the hydro plant in Maysville. He worked for Public Service for 35 years. Ralph was an energy in the community, coaching various sports and serving as an umpire for softball and baseball games for 15 years. He was elected to 2 terms for City Council and later served as Mayor of Salida for 2 years, which was his proudest achievement. Ralph’s interests included spending time with his family, golfing, fishing, and hunting. He also enjoyed gardening, wood working, problem solving by invention from tools to furniture, and handyman extraordinaire; he was a true jack of all trades. Ralph never knew a stranger and touched the lives of those he came in contact with. He is survived by his loving wife Ellaine, his daughters; Colleen Doss (Corey Doss), Carrie Mattix (Buel Mattix), and grandchildren; Lainey Doss, Cordell Doss, Ryus Mattix, Fletcher Mattix, and Jarrek Mattix. No formal services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity in Ralph’s name or plant a tree. On line condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.

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