1947
Rafael
2024
Rafael A. Cotto
March 1, 1947 — March 3, 2024
Rafael “Ralph” Angel Cotto Jr, age 77, of Bridgeport, passed away at home peacefully on March 3, 2024. Ralph was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico on March 1, 1947, and was a beloved son to the late Rafael Angel Cotto Sr and Virginia Santiago Patron. At the age of 5, Ralph and his family moved to Bridgeport, CT where he was raised in Father Panik Village. He attended Waltersville School and graduated from Warren Harding High School. Shortly after graduating, he enlisted in the Army. He proudly served in the ranks of the 101st Airborne Division where he was awarded numerous medals including the Bronze Star Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal (with 3 bronze service stars), and the Marksman Badge (with Auto Rifle Bar). Ralph was an employee of the Bridgeport Hydraulic Company (Aquarion) and dedicated 20 years to the Yellow Cab Company until his retirement. Ralph enjoyed bowling, tennis, bike riding, connecting with his childhood buddies, doo-wop music, and watching his New York Mets; however, his favorite pastime was spending time with his children and recounting stories of his youth. His love was poured into his children who love and will miss him terribly. He loved the Park City and was an extremely proud resident. Ralph was a nurturing man and loved life. He always welcomed new friends and made them feel like they were family.
Ralph leaves to cherish his memory, his sisters, Ana Ortiz of Bridgeport and Jennie Morales of Florida, his children, Dawn Cotto of Bridgeport, Heather Cotto of Bridgeport, Angelique Cotto of Ansonia, Jaimie Arroyo of Trumbull, Carol Arroyo of Stafford Springs, Demostenes Arroyo Jr. of Bridgeport, Christian Arroyo of Bridgeport, Luis Cepeda of Bridgeport, many nieces and nephews and nine beautiful grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Carlos Cepeda. Ralph was an amazing man and will be tremendously missed. He will be commended with full Military honors.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on March 12, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church, 275 Union Avenue, Bridgeport, CT. Full military honors will be conducted following the mass.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Rafael A. Cotto, please visit our flower store.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Mass
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Blessed Sacrament Church
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