Ralph Truppi RIP

[Bob Pagano]

This man took all of us and gave us what we needed to be good racers, it went beyond building your engine and picking a great combo. He showed us what we did wrong and how to fix it and if that did not work he fixed it. There are no words I can say that can express my thanks for all he did over the years, Ralph never knew the word no. We all need to take some time and pray for him and his family in their time of need. Stop and think of how much he gave us as I believe he takes a small peice of us with him. My condolences to the entire Truppi family. Bob Pagano

[Dave Stinner]

I thought I would post Ralph's obituary from c-n.com

Ralph M. Truppi Jr., 67, died Sunday (July 27, 2008) at Somerset Medical Center in Somerville. Born in Morristown, he formerly resided in North Plainfield before moving to Branchburg 32 years ago.

Mr. Truppi served in the Army Reserves from 1977 to 1983.

Ralph was self-employed as a professional race car engine builder and was inducted into the National Hot Rod Association Hall of Fame-Northeast Division. He was responsible for more than 100 NHRA national records. He was the owner of the 1997 Bridgeport Speedway Sportman Championship car, driven by his son, Brian, and maintained by his son, Michael. Ralph was a former coach of both the Branchburg travel soccer and Branchburg baseball leagues.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 45 years, Laurel Zicha Truppi; his two loving sons, Michael and Brian Truppi, both of Readington; and his dear mother, Marian Bernake Truppi of North Plainfield.

A prayer service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, July 31, at the Branchburg Funeral Home, 910 US Highway 202 South, Branchburg, 908-526-7638. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. today, July 30, at the funeral home.

I was just out of High School when I met Ralph, and the TK gang. Great guys. I saw my first engine Dyno'ed there, got some parts to build the first stocker engine for my car. Those guys would always take the time to answer my questions, and offer advise. Ralph will truely be missed. My condolences to the whole Truppi family.