Dr. Ralph M. Mann passed away on March 15th, 2011. He was 86 years old and was a resident of Gloucester, more than 55 years.
Ralph was born in Chelsea, August 1st, 1924. He was the son of the late Harry S. and Bertha (Kerner) Mann. He was a graduate of both Tufts College and of the Massachusetts College of Optometry.
Ralph worked as an Optometrist before retirement where he ran his own practice in Gloucester for many years. He also was a senior Optometrist for Beth Israel Hospital, Harvard Pilgrim Health and Ocean Optical of Gloucester.
Ralph was a leader with the Boys Scouts of America where he learned to be an instructor of Medical First Aid. Later he spent many years volunteering for the Gloucester Chapter of the American Red Cross, where he taught First Aid to local police and Fire personnel before the advent of paramedics and where he affectionately picked up the nickname “Doc” Mann. Ralph had a love of music and spent several years playing clarinet with the Rockport Legion Band where at the summer concerts he would introduce each song with his entertaining humor.
Ralph was the beloved husband of the late Marilyn (Nesson) Mann. He was a devoted father of Janet Farrell and her husband Hank, Edward Mann and his wife Christine, and William Masselli and his wife Barbara. Ralph was the dear brother of the late Herbert A. Mann. He was also the loving grandfather of Benjamin Parsons, Melissa Mann and Matthew Mann.
A Chapel service will be held at the Torf Funeral Chapel, 151 Washington Ave., Cary Sq, CHELSEA on Friday, March 18th at 11AM. Interment in Sharon. Contributions in Ralph’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.