Ralph J. Ianfolla, Jr.

Ralph J. Ianfolla, Jr., age 76, of Winona, MN, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025, in Winona.

He was born on August 9, 1948, in Bronx, NY, to Ralph Sr. and Mary (Corr) Ianfolla. He graduated from Long Beach NY High School in 1966 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Winona State University.

Ralph honorably served his country with the United States Army in Germany from 1969 to 1971.

He was united in marriage with Barbara Cisewski on October 19, 1973, in Winona.

Ralph was employed with the Telephone Company in Northfield and Owatonna for over 30 years, prior to his retirement.

His greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted husband to Barb, and he cherished the time that he spent with his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him the most.

He will be remembered for his witty sense of humor and great digs, his love of sending flowers to his wife, weekend racquetball tournaments with his son, his love for watching his daughter and granddaughter and Northfield high school girls’ basketball, sharing sports stats and stories with his grandsons, sharing stories about his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments with all who would listen and sometimes not listen, and especially cheering on his grandchildren in sporting events in person and afar!

Ralph is lovingly survived by his wife of almost 52 years, Barbara; children: Jason (Janelle) Ianfolla, and Stephanie Balvin; grandchildren: Jaclyn, Tony, Jake, Izzy, and Andrew; sister: Terise (Gary) Newman; nephew, Garet Newman; his beloved dog and best friend, Frankie; as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Ianfolla.

Honoring Ralph’s wishes, funeral services will be held privately for his family. He will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona, with military honors.

Memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Tunnels to Towers, or a charity of choice.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Ralph’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.