Raffaele "Ralph" Mandato went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 30, 2020.

Ralph was born in Naples, Italy on August 10, 1928 to Giovanni and Carmela Mandato.  He was the oldest of eight children.  His parents, and siblings, Nicola, Rosaria, Giuseppe, Teresa, Pietro, Anna and Antonio all, preceded him in death.

Ralph, his wife and three daughters immigrated from Naples, Italy to Kansas City where Ralph had an illustrious career as a pastry chef.  In his early years, he was featured on local television stations displaying his creativity and artistic abilities in pastry design.

Ralph was a self-taught musician, playing the accordion and harmonica.  He was a prolific writer who penned many stories and poems. One of his most memorable poems is called "Due Bandiere" (Two Flags).  He wrote of the Italian flag, for the country of his birth and the American flag, for the country which adopted him.  It is a moving portrayal of how each of these two flags shaped his thinking and the way he lived his life.  Along with his artistic and creative abilities, he was also an animal lover and an avid rescuer of animals in need.  Ralph was a devout Christian and his greatest loves were God, his family, America, and sweets!

Ralph is survived by his wife of 67 years Maria "Mary" and his three daughters: Claudia (Mike Harp) of Overland Park, KS,  Giovanna (Michael Leahy) of Budapest, Hungary, Silvana, Raef and Drew Dahlquist (Ralph's beloved grandsons) of Kansas City, MO; as well as extended Harp family members: Michelle, Troy (Jennifer), Tammy (Jess), their respective children, and Leahy family members.  He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Given COVID, the family will hold a private service on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home followed by interment at Terrace Park Cemetery. Services will be live streamed beginning at 10 a.m. at www.facebook.com/passantinobros . In lieu of flowers, the family requests honoring Ralph by sending Mary and his daughters cards and shared memories.  Donations are suggested to Villa St. Francis, 16620 W. 126th St. Olathe, KS 66062, in memory of Ralph Mandato.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com