Ralph Vincent Cornell, 74, passed away on Tuesday, December 8 after a long battle with numerous health issues, ultimately passing from cancer. A life-long resident of Salem, Ralph was born to Alfred & Alice Cornell on October 22, 1946. Ralph was a graduate of Salem High School, and Salem Commercial College. In July of 1977 he married Kathleen Cornell, with whom he shared 43 wonderful years of marriage. Ralph devoted 32 years of his life to Boston Gas, where he retired from.

Ralph was known around town for the time he put in to being the past president of the board of directors, and the former legendary entertainment committee chairmen at the AOH, division 18, in Salem, MA. When he wasn't spending his time there, Ralph was catching every Boston Sports game. During his sporting career Ralph played baseball, basketball and football, and when he went to college, he continued his basketball career, where he achieved one of his proudest moments playing with his team at the Boston Garden. In 1959, after being inspired by Ralph's athletic achievements and overcoming polio, Ted Williams sent Ralph a personalized baseball, which he cherished until his last days. When not catching the latest game, Ralph loved to travel with his family to Aruba, spring training in Ft. Meyers, and St. Pete Beach, FL. Ralph lived for his wife and son, and when he wasn't watching a game or on a trip, you could find him in his yard.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife Kathleen Cornell, his son David Matthew Cornell and his wife Ariane Cornell, and his faithful companion Ottis. Ralph was predeceased by his parents Alfred Cornell and Alice Cornell, and his granddaughter Joanna Kayden Cornell.

DUE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS, THE FAMILY HAS CANCELLED THE VISITING HOURS TO KEEP EVERYONE SAFE AND HEALTHY

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating in honor of his granddaughter, Joanna Kayden Cornell to: The Still Remembered Project at Stillremebered.org. For more information or online guestbook please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.murphyfuneralhome.com .