Ralph J. Sandine

YOUGSTOWN - Ralph J. Sandine, 76, passed away on August 20, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic. 

Born on October 17, 1947, in Youngstown, a son of the late, Ralph and Gloria Mayer Sandine. Ralph lived a life rich in experience, dedication and love.

Ralph was a proud graduate of Struthers High School in 1965 and received a bachelor's degree in Science and Education from Youngstown State University, where he also played football under Coach Dike Beede and was a proud member of the Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity.

Ralph embarked on his professional journey as a teacher, sharing his knowledge and passion at Ursuline and Jackson Milton before embarking on a new path as a safety director and recruiter for Miller Transfer and Rigging, retiring in 2012.

His life was not only defined by his career but profoundly impacted by his devotion to coaching. Ralph's coaching career spanned many years and many teams, including football at Jackson Milton and Ursuline, basketball at St. Dominic's for 18 years along with football and leading the boys' freshman basketball team at Cardinal Mooney. He concluded his coaching journey with the Mooney Girl's Varsity Basketball team alongside his dear friend Bill Ritter, leaving behind countless cherished memories and a legacy of guidance for the athletes he mentored. He was also a former member of the St. Dominic's and Cardinal Mooney Boosters.

Ralph’s personality shone brightly; he loved spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren, whom he adored. He found peace and happiness at Lake Erie, creating unforgettable memories right by the water's edge. He was an avid golfer and participated in the St. Dominic's Golf League.

Family was central to Ralph’s life. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Susan E. Squillace Sandine, whom he married on November 28, 1968; his daughter, Sheila E. Sandine; son, Ralph J. (Amy) Sandine II; and three adored grandchildren, Rocco, Vivian, and Vada Sandine. He also leaves behind Susan’s siblings, Vincent Squillace, Maripat (Emil) Kwaczala, Michael (Teri) Squillace, and Deborah (Steven) Park, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Ralph was preceded in death by his sister, Deborah Sandine; brother, Mark Sandine; and sister-in-law, Catherine Squillace.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel located at 3701 Starr’s Centre Drive, Canfield.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, August 26, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Parish at 7345 Westview Dr, Boardman, Ohio.

Ralph’s legacy of love, wisdom, and coaching will forever resonate in the lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cardinal Mooney Scholarship Fund.