Ralph J. Vanderhoef, 78, of Worcester passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown.

He was born August 27, 1930 in Bronx; the son of Peter and Annoinette (Zarro) Vanderhoef.

Ralph married Bridget Tulumello on October 6, 1951 in Manhattan. She predeceased him on May 26, 2009.

He served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Ralph moved to Worcester in 1976.

He was a bus driver at the Worcester Central School for 11 years; water superintendent for the Town of Worcester and a plumber at the Worcester Central School and for area homes.

Ralph was a member of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, the Worcester American Legion Post 1584 and the Worcester Fire Dept.

He is survived by his sister, Regina Raab; his nephew Tom and 4 nieces, Arlene, Roberta, Alice and Denise.

He was predeceased by his parents Orlando and Annoinette Vendura.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2009 at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Worcester with the Rev. Ronald L. Green, MM as celebrant. Burial will follow at the St. Joseph's Cemetery with military honors.

Calling hours will be held today from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 5:00 p.m. at the E.J. Skinner Co. Funeral Chapel, 155 Main St. Worcester.

Contributions may be made in loving memory of Ralph to the St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, Main Street, Worcester, NY 12197.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.skinnerfuneralchapel.com.

The E.J. Skinner Co. Funeral Chapel in Worcester is serving the family.