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BORN

1958

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Baker Funeral Home - Queensbury

11 Lafayette Street

Queensbury, New York

Ralph Salem Jr. Obituary

Ralph G. Salem, Jr. of Edisto Island, South Carolina, 67, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.


Born March 18, 1958 in Glens Falls, New York, he was the son of Ralph G. Salem, Sr., and Beatrice (Jacobs) Salem.


Ralph graduated from Hudson Falls High School in 1976. Following high school, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Fitness from Ithaca College and graduated in 1980. In college, Ralph was on the wrestling team, and NCAA All-American in 1979. Many knew Ralph as “cheetah” for his speed, athleticism and quick wit.


Ralph worked for the New York State Department of Corrections from 1982 to 2008, spending a year in Ossining and finished at Mount McGregor. He also worked at the Saratoga Race Track in Track Security as a Sergeant during the summer, from 1976 to present. Furthermore, Ralph was a driving education instructor for both adults and students, as well as defensive driving instructor for BOCES, Bell’s Driving School in Saratoga and Branches Driving School in Liverpool, NY. 


During his retirement, Ralph enjoyed driving and marshalling pro players of numerous tennis tournaments in the U.S. Ralph cherished his memories of his attendance at the French Open Tennis Tournament. Ralph loved his family and watching athletes across all sports. Additionally, Ralph was an avid fan of wrestling, all things Syracuse, especially Syracuse football and basketball, Yankee baseball, the Cowboys, college football, horse racing, and traveling to Maine and Florida. 


Ralph was a kindhearted, selfless and giving person. Ralph’s generosity, loyalty, and unique personality touched countless lives and those who knew him will never forget the way he made people feel welcomed, cared for, and seen. Ralph was a member of St. George Orthodox Church in South Glens Falls where he served on the board of trustees and various committees.


In addition to his father, Ralph G. Salem, Sr., he was predeceased by his cherished son, Matthew R. Salem, grandson, Cameron Salem, and his sister, Lynne Marie Salem.


Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Beatrice Salem; treasured girlfriend, Cynthia Mosscrop; sisters, Mary (Kevin) Godfrey and Karen (Francis) Nassivera; nieces and nephews, Francis, Dominic and Olivia Nassivera and Lynne Marie Godfrey; aunt and uncle, Anna Cottrell and Al Crotty; special cousin, Beth “Beeka” Bishop; and many other beloved cousins.


A private service was held Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 10 am, officiated by Father Gregory Potter. 


In loving memory of Ralph G. Salem, Jr.  contributions may be made to the set up GoFundMe for funeral expenses, or donations can be made to Beatrice Salem in care of Robert Doll 11 Birdie Drive Apt. C, Queensbury, New York 12804.


Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com. 

Published by Daily Hampshire Gazette on Sep. 17, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Salem Jr.

Not sure what to say?





Lisa Hoffman

October 21, 2025

I’m beyond heartbroken and at a loss for words to hear of this news.. Praying for all whose lives were touched by your beautiful soul, may you rest in eternal peace and until we meet again.. rest easy my dearest friend

SHARON GEERTS

October 14, 2025

I am sorry to read of Ralph’s passing. We’ve known each other for about 30 years. He would occasionally call me. We would banter back-and-forth. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this most difficult time.
May he rest in peace,

Rick Thompson

October 13, 2025

Ralph, you were quite a guy, always smiling and ready to help out. I worked with you for years as a Security guard summers at the track. I can't put into words how much you will be missed.

Tracy Carroll

September 23, 2025

I met Ralph years ago, while working at Mt. McGregor..Ralph was friendly, thoughtful and could carry a nice conversation. On occasion, I would run into Ralph at St. Georges cemetery where he would spend time at the family plot......Ralph was a kind sensitive soul who cared deeply for his family and friends. My sincere condolences to his family and his beloved Cindy ( I always enjoyed catching up with Cindy at the BonTon). May Ralph rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord. And May God comfort his loved ones.

Jack Sanders

September 23, 2025

Ralph was a very good friend to me. I worked with him for many years at Mt.Mcgregor.He was a very reliable and accommadating shift swapping partner for me.
Ralph would also come over my house occasionally to repair his vehicles. We would always have so much fun and I will never forget those times! Rest easy my friend until we meet again.

Jeff Barton

September 21, 2025

Ralph was one of a kind. Whenever you talked to Ralph you began and ended with a smile on your face. I’ll always remember the baseball team you put together with our kids at the last moment, called them the misfits, and ended up winning the Plattsburgh tournament. That was because of you Ralph. I remember my son Nick taking drivers ed with Ralph. He would come home and tell us somehow they always ended up at the racetrack! You will truly be missed my friend.

Robert Dwyer

September 21, 2025

May he rest in eternal peace.

Jonny Balke

September 20, 2025

Ralph loved his family and loved Geneva NY. It was rooted in his childhood. As a boy, I couldn’t wait till he and his family would arrive for a visit. His dad, Ralph Sr. (my mother’s brother), grew up here. As soon as I got his call, I would tear over to my grandparent’s house and the wrestling, ball games, playing in the backyard around the creek, etc. would all begin. We were notorious for rough-housing and we’d often be told to rotate our activities around the circuit of other family houses (our house and our other cousins’ houseGeneva is where all his “Salem” cousins lived), to give each mom some measure of peace during the day. Ralph continued to come here the rest of his life (as recent as June) and was considering to even settle here. Much more could be told about my old playmate, and the fun we had in Hudson Falls (with his “Jacobs” cousins). We all loved him and now give way to tears. He is greatly missed.

Steven Ziemba

September 20, 2025

I am truely sorry for your loss. Ralph was a true friend & loyal to everyone at his job. We shared many laughs together. A true gentleman! Thank you Ralph for everything! You Sir, will be sorely missed... God's Blessings!

JR Diamond

September 20, 2025

Ralph" Cheetah" Salem, a superior athlete, gentlemen to all, and the best dry wit, You will be missed by many and may you RIP my friend.

Gary Londrigan

September 20, 2025

My family and I are saddened by the passing of our friend Ralph. He was to us a very gentle, soft spoken, kind, and witty man. We had the privilege of getting to know Ralph and family through the years of our sons playing baseball and going through school
Together. It grieves my soul to know the heartache your family is going through the last couple of years at all the personal loss. May you all find the comfort your hearts long for from God as you come to terms with the difficult and sad period you are in.

richard potter

September 19, 2025

Ralph met us in Myrtle Beach SC where he rented a condo from us. From there we quickly became friends. Even after selling it we had a long distance phone call/text relationship in which we would talk at least a couple times a week for years (no kidding!). He was so funny and made us laugh all the time. He would be out and about running around and would call and talk about just about everything going on at the time. I felt comfortable talking about anything with him. We both loved sports - He with New York and I with Michigan. I would consider him one of my best friends. Not your usual person and never boring! Annie loved him too and he always made her crack up laughing. We are so sorry that he is gone but I feel he is not really gone and we will NEVER forget him! Thank you Ralph for spending time with us. We are just so sad right now......

Brian Legault

September 19, 2025

Sorry to hear of Ralphs passing, he was a great guy. Everytime I saw him we always had a good laugh. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.

Sue Lowe

September 19, 2025

My heartfelt condolences to you all. Ralph was such a kind, friendly guy. I enjoyed our neighborhood chats very much. May he rest in peace. ❤

Terry Gorton

September 18, 2025

RIP Ralph . You are a good man and a great teammate . Thank you for the memories . I still hate the Cowboys because of you .

Beth Bishop

September 18, 2025

Rest in peace my dear cousin. You will be deeply missed.

Roberto Combe

September 18, 2025

Rest in paradise Ralphie going to miss your great smile and kindness..

J Gibbs

September 18, 2025

Ralph was a kindhearted soul & would’ve given you the shirt off his back. I considered him my friend & he would be dearly missed

Jan Lapoint

September 18, 2025

So very sad to hear this. I graduated with Ralph. I remember him then as a sports nut! Over the years, I’d run into him, he always remembered me! Such a kind, energetic, friendly guy! My condolences to his family. May he now Rest in Paradise. ❤

Chief Adam Brement

September 18, 2025

On behalf of the Fire Marshals Team at NYRA, we want to express our deepest condolences on the unexpected passing of our friend and coworker. Ralph was more than just a colleague, he was a true teammate, someone who brought dedication, humor, and kindness to every day we worked alongside him. His absence will be deeply felt, both in the workplace and in our lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones, and all who knew him. May we honor his memory by carrying forward the same spirit of camaraderie and commitment that he shared with us.

JAMES DAY

September 17, 2025

I DIDN’T KNOW RALPH WAS INVOLVED WITH SO MANY INTERESTS. IT WAS A TREASURE TO WORK WITH RALPH AT MT. McGREGOR FOR MANY YEARS. HE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR THE GREAT MAN HE WAS

Dolores Taisey

September 17, 2025

Ralph was a respected gentleman, always performing his duties as an officer in a professional manner, always speaking a sincere kind word to others. I knew him, being a teacher at Mt. McGregor CF.
So very sorry for this news.
Hold on to those wonderful memories..they remain close in hearts.

keith brunelle

September 17, 2025

I have known Ralph since jr. high school - we were on the wrestling team for a few years together in high school and of course worked with him, as an officer also. It was a pleasure to be around him. He will be missed but will always be in my thoughts and prayers

Ted Willette

September 17, 2025

Truly a good man .

Terry Barton

September 17, 2025

I remember Ralph as gentile beautiful soul and will be missed. To his family I'm so very sorry for your loss.

John Tremblay

September 17, 2025

Rest In Peace Ralph, Had many a good day working with you at McGregor. My prayers are for you and your family.

Gerald Hicks C.O. Retired

September 17, 2025

Ralph, we hope that you are in a better place

Jean Huff

September 17, 2025

I worked with Ralph at Mt. McGregor for 26 year, and at NYRA Saratoga race track. Ralph was a wonderful person, he was kind and easy to be around.
Condolences to his family, it’s such a huge loss. I am truly sorry. At least he’s with his son now, as horrible as his death is.
Love, Jean Huff

Maria Murdza

September 17, 2025

Ralph was probably one of the sweetest and kindest guys I ever worked with. I worked with Ralph at MMCF until I transferred in 1988. I would then see him once a year at the Saratoga race track for years on opening day on the track. I never ever heard him say anything bad about anyone or even lose his temper! I am so sadden by this. My heart goes out to his family and close friends. RIP my sweet friend and brother.

Mary Randall

September 17, 2025

My heart is breaking for Bea, Mary, Karen and all the Family! Ralph was always like a big brother. So many childhood memories and neighborhood laughs to cherish always. Rest in eternal peace Ralph. Love and prayers to all the family. Love you all!! Mary Cicero Randall

Frederick Balke

September 17, 2025

We are going to miss you greatly, my friend. Rest with God

Ralph Underwood

September 17, 2025

From one Hudson Falls boy to another, Ralph you were a wonderful person, co worker and friend. Anyone that thinks of you can't help but smile. So many laughs at work. Thank you for awesome memories my friend. Rest in Peace and God Bless. Sympathies to his family.

KAREN DANCHO

September 17, 2025

What would I like to say about Ralph? What can I say? I'm still so stunned! He was a great guy and was always one to stop and talk a while at work. I worked at Mt McGregor as the Head Business Office Manager and we'd "run into" each other on occasion. I've seen his recent FB posting on-line and he seemed to be doing well, but what is on the outside is not always what is on the inside. I know this. So very, very sorry for your loss and our loss and so many others. My heart goes out to all of you that knew Ralph. May God Bless him and your all.

Joe Prehoda

September 17, 2025

Rest in the sleep of peace brother Ralph

Christina Marois

September 17, 2025

I worked with Ralph at MMCF and as a new civilian he made sure I knew I was safe and was ready to answer any question with a smile. I will miss him greatly.

John Jabara

September 17, 2025

My heart and my love go out to Ralph's family, whom I have known and been friends too since the mid-1970s. I will always cherish Ralph as a good friend, loyal to a fault and always there when he was needed. The times we had together and Ralph will remain forever in my heart and memory and my love for his family will continue as well.

Tammy LaTulippe

September 17, 2025

One of the good correction officers to work with at MMCF. Always had a smile on his face which in turn made me smile.

Kellie Abbott

September 17, 2025

My deepest sympathies. Ralph will be dearly missed.
Much love, Kellie Abbott

Andrew Johnson

September 16, 2025

I worked with Ralph both at the track and at Mt. McGregor ,he was always a fun guy to be with and he had a great sense of humor. I remember working with his father too at the track. He was very well liked and I spent many times with him. I saw him at the track this year and it was great to see him. I'm sorry sorry for all of his family. Rest in Peace "Ralph" Love Andy Johnson

Aaron Benware

September 16, 2025

I am so sorry for your loss. Ralph was a very good man. I enjoyed my time working with him. He will be very much missed.

Carol DiTommaso

September 16, 2025

RIP SG Salem, sorry to hear this sad news, sending prayers to the family.

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