Loving husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather, Antonio Raviele, 84, of Middletown, passed away peacefully April 27, 2021, surrounded by his family. Born and raised in Cervinara, Italy, he married the love of his life and soulmate, Lucia, in 1963. They resided in Brooklyn most of their lives. In 2014 they decided to move to Middletown to be closer to their beloved children and grandchildren.
Antonio was predeceased by his parents, Teresa and Michele Raviele, and his sisters, Rosalia and Maddalena. He is survived by his wife, Lucia, of 58 years; their three children and their spouses, Lia and John Koopman, Maria and Michael Libretti and Michael and Nicky Raviele; and his sister Geraldine Lengua. He will be missed by his six grandchildren whom he adored more than anything: John, Sydney, Victoria, Olivia, Alexa and Isabella.
Antonio worked as a mechanical engineer senior designer in Manhattan until he retired at the age of 55. He spent many happy years in their vacation home in the Poconos and most recently in Ft. Meyers Beach, Florida, where he was known for joining in on bocce ball tournaments on the beach.
He enjoyed vacationing with his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family (from Canada and Italy) and close friends. His travels included Italy, Canada, Dominican Republic, Aruba, cruises in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, as well as trips within the U.S. Antonio thoroughly enjoyed entertaining family and friends during the holidays and at their vacation homes.
His hobbies included home projects (at his homes as well as his children’s homes), wine making, playing bocce ball (he was known for his skills on the beach), gardening, walking and watching soccer. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, his most precious gifts. Antonio will be remembered by all, most notably for his infectious smile and warm, welcoming personality.
Visitation was May 2 at Evergreen Memorial Funeral Home, Middletown. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated May 3 at Church of Saint Leo the Great, Lincroft. For those unable to attend in person, the Mass was streamed via a YouTube link.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Church of Saint Leo the Great in Antonio’s memory would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be mailed directly to the church at 50 Hurleys Lane, Lincroft, NJ 07738 to the attention of Deacon John Senkewicz.
The article originally appeared in the May 13 – 19, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
