Ralph T. DeFranco

Ralph Thomas DeFranco, age 83, passed away peacefully Tuesday, October 20, 2026. He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Kathleen Caserio (nee Nero). Ralph was the devoted father of Thomas G. DeFranco, Michael J. DeFranco (Sarah), Mark A. DeFranco and Tiffany DeFranco, and "Grandpa De" of Thomas, Francesca, Christopher, Gabrielle, Marie and Matthew DeFranco, dear brother of Carol Frate Mills, beloved uncle and cousin of many.

Ralph is also survived by Kathy's sons, Nicholas Caserio (Kathleen) and Michael Caserio (Roxann) and grandchildren Whitley, Miahbella, Chatham, Michael and Charleston Caserio.

Ralph was born on June 8, 1943 to A. Thomas and Marie (nee Curti) DeFranco in the "Blue Rock" neighborhood on Cleveland's east side. He was a proud 1961 graduate of Cathedral Latin High School, 1965 graduate of John Carroll University, and CSU Cleveland Marshall College of Law, receiving his Juris Doctorate in 1972. Ralph also served in the US Army National Guard for 6 years, completing his duty in 1972. He was in private practice of the Law from 1973 to the present.

In addition to his practice, Ralph served as City Prosecutor in the 1980's and 1990's for the cities of Maple Heights and Fairview Park.

Ralph touched and elevated many lives. He was a valued friend, trusted colleague and respected counselor. His integrity, kindness and humor were greatly appreciated. To quote the Roman Philosopher Cicero, "The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living, " thus Ralph will be remembered lovingly as a good man by many, certainly a life well lived.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE INVITED TO GATHER FOR MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL 10:30 AM MONDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 AT HOLY ROSARY CHURCH, 12021 MAYFIELD ROAD, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44106 WHERE FRIENDS MAY CALL FROM 9:30 AM UNTIL MASS TIME ON MONDAY.

Contributions in Ralph's memory suggested to The Cleveland Clinic Hospice at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/giving?campaign=702091