WEST GARDINER – The Moody-D’Angelo family is heartbroken to announce the passing of Ralph James D’Angelo Jr., 69, of West Gardiner, who left us far too soon on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Andwell Hospice House in Auburn, following injuries sustained in a car accident.
Born in Northborough, Mass., on March 6, 1957, Ralph was the son of Ralph, Sr. and Jean (Fiske) D’Angelo. He lived a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
Ralph spent many years as a dedicated car salesman and took particular pride in selling Volvos. He was passionate about his work, but nothing meant more to him than the people he loved. Family and friends were truly the center of his world.
A longtime resident of West Gardiner, Ralph was a true outdoorsman who found joy and peace in nature. He loved fishing, boating, and spending time on the water, especially alongside his beloved wife, Patty. Whether at the lake, the beach, or out on the ice teaching others how to fish, Ralph’s adventurous spirit and generous heart left lasting memories for so many.
Ralph also had a deep love for gardening and took immense pride in his yard and flower gardens. He found calm and satisfaction in nurturing his plants and creating beauty around his home. Known for his easygoing personality and sense of humor, Ralph was a devoted fan of the Three Stooges and was always ready with a quote or joke to make others laugh.
Ralph will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia “Patty” Moody-D’Angelo; his son, Justin D’Angelo, daughter, Chelsea D’Angelo and her partner Nate Gardner; and his cherished grandchildren, James, Ava, and Hallee Gardner.
He is also survived by his brothers, James and Anthony D’Angelo; nephews AJ and Michael D’Angelo, and nephew Marc Curtis.
On the Moody side of the family, Ralph is survived by brothers-in-law Robert Moody and wife Tammy, with nieces Melissa and Jennifer Moody; Roderick Moody and wife Donna; Cory Moody; and Chadwick Moody, with nephews Hunter and Gage Moody, as well as nephew Logan Gardner and great-niece Charlotte Gardner.
He is further survived by his sister-in-law Susan Snell; niece Sally Shepard and her children Mackenzie, Kayleigh, Madison Shepard, and Elijah Veilleux; nieces Casandra Snead and Molly Snell; along with numerous extended family members and close friends whom Ralph loved dearly.
Ralph often spoke fondly of his childhood memories with cousins and family beach outings, and he especially treasured the many friendships built through fishing and the outdoors. He took great pride in teaching others how to ice fish and sharing the traditions and experiences he loved most.
He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph, Sr. and Jean (Fiske) D’Angelo, and his sister, Julie D’Angelo.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Ralph on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, School Street, Gardiner, following the Mass, Ralph will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Gardiner. Following the committal there will be a reception at the American Legion, Griffin Street, Gardiner.
The family invites you to share memories and upload photos to Ralph’s memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com so that his life, love, and legacy may continue to be celebrated by all who knew him.
Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine 04345
In lieu of flowers,
please make a donation in Ralph’s name to the:
Kennebec Land Trust
Kennebec Valley
Humane Society
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