Ralph Genaro Turco

On April 8, 2024, Ralph G. Turco (90) left port, setting sail on his final regatta.

Ralph was born on June 24, 1933, to Ralph Turco and Caroline Verone Turco. He grew up on the Hilltop in Tacoma in an Italian neighborhood. He was proud of his Italian heritage and the success of all the people he grew up with. He graduated from Bellarmine Preparatory School where he made friends he would have for the rest of his life. Seattle University came next. Then he went on to Gonzaga Law School, receiving his degree and gaining more lifelong friends. He had a successful law practice for over 30 years. He transitioned from being in front of the bench to sitting behind it as a Tacoma municipal court judge.

He married Adrian (Pat) Richmond and started a family: R. Milton (Jodi), Michael (Cynthia), Patrick (Cynthia), and Theresa Turco Trebilcock. In classic Italian fashion, the home was open to all. Ralph and Pat loved having parties; the art of the dinner party thrived in their Old Town home. Ralph enjoyed meeting and interacting with his children’s friends too.

Grandchildren came: Dominic (Sarah), Antonio, Sam, Mariah (Raven), Drew, Matti, Isabella, Mario, Ave, Annika and two great grandchildren arrived: Cooper and Myles. A growing family gave Ralph the opportunity to attend more celebrations, including religious milestones, birthday parties, musical and dance recitals, sporting events, weddings, and graduations. He tried to attend them all, as they were all important to him. Also, he loved his country, as shown by his service in the Army Reserves.

Ralph had a passion for sailing and over the years became skilled, winning many races on Commencement Bay. He enjoyed the game of cribbage and all the new friends he made playing.

He was predeceased by brother Lawrence Turco, sister Lorraine Turco Baker, and granddaughter Catarina Turco.

A celebration of life will be held at the Tacoma Yacht Club on May 5th, from 1-4 p.m. Come bid Dad fair winds and following seas.