Scotch Plains Mourns The Passing of Ralph Checchio, Vietnam Vet, Memorial Day Parade Chair, and Community Leader

Ralph E. Checchio, who shaped Scotch Plains through decades of military service, business leadership, and community volunteerism, died Wednesday, July 15, 2026. He was 84.

A lifelong Scotch Plains resident who grew up on Westfield Avenue and graduated from Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, Checchio served as a U.S. Army veteran during the Vietnam War. After his service, he built a family business and became deeply involved in civic life, earning recognition from local leaders for his dedication to the community.

Union County Life is reporting on the passing of this significant community figure. Checchio founded Ralph Checchio Inc., a paving and construction company, in 1950 and operated it for more than 75 years from 661 Jerusalem Road. Under his leadership, the business became known for quality work and professionalism, serving families and commercial clients throughout North and Central New Jersey.

Beyond his business, Checchio volunteered extensively for civic causes. He chaired the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Memorial Day Parade Committee for many years, overseeing the annual event that honors the military service and sacrifice of fallen soldiers. In 2022, the community recognized his decades of service by naming him grand marshal of the Memorial Day Parade. In 2016, he was honored at the Scotch Plains Mayor's Gala for his contributions to community life.

Checchio's approach to business and service reflected a consistent philosophy: community mattered. Colleagues and clients remembered him for his attention to detail, professionalism, and willingness to support local causes. His company employed generations of workers, some of whom stayed for decades, reflecting the stability and values he brought to the business.

Residents who knew Checchio in any context — as a neighbor, a business owner, a fellow veteran, or a volunteer — described a man who showed up and followed through, whether the task was a major construction project or organizing the community's most important civic ceremony.

For more information about Scotch Plains government and community news, stay informed on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: Who was Ralph Checchio?
A: Ralph E. Checchio was a lifelong Scotch Plains resident, U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran, and founder of Ralph Checchio Inc., a paving and construction company established in 1950. He was recognized for decades of community service and civic leadership.

Q: What was Ralph Checchio's business?
A: Checchio founded Ralph Checchio Inc., a family-owned paving and construction company, in 1950. The company operated from 661 Jerusalem Road in Scotch Plains for more than 75 years, serving residential and commercial clients throughout North and Central New Jersey.

Q: What civic roles did Ralph Checchio hold?
A: Checchio chaired the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Memorial Day Parade Committee for many years, overseeing the annual event honoring military service and sacrifice. In 2022, he was named grand marshal of the Memorial Day Parade, recognizing his decades of dedication to the community.

Q: How was Ralph Checchio honored for his service?
A: In 2016, Checchio was honored at the Scotch Plains Mayor's Gala for his contributions to community life. He was also named grand marshal of the Memorial Day Parade in 2022 in recognition of his long service to the community.

Q: When did Ralph Checchio die?
A: Ralph E. Checchio died on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at age 84. He was a lifelong Scotch Plains resident who left a lasting impact on the community through business, military service, and volunteerism.