WESTFIELD – Ralph E. Cortis, 94, died Sunday, August 13th, 2023 at Genesis, Westfield Center. Born in Russell on August 31st, 1928, he was the son of Robert and Hildred (Palmer) Cortis. He attended his early school years in Woronoco and graduated from Westfield High School in 1947.
Ralph was active in the Boy Scouts as a committee member, scout leader and other roles for 20+ years. He was a member of Mount Moriah Lodge of Masons for 60 years and Melha Shrine Temple for 40 years.
He devoted many years of research on both the Cortis and Goodwin family genealogies and their related ancestral lines. His interest in local history also included several years as an active member of the Westfield Historic Commission.
Ralph’s 25+ years of research on the history of the town of Russell MA culminated with the 2013 publication of “Russell Massachusetts, Establishment of a New England Town and early historical notes”, which he co-authored with his son.
Ralph was predeceased in 2011 by his wife of 62 years, Jeanne L. (Goodwin) Cortis. He was also predeceased by three brothers, Stanley, Harold and Chester and one sister, Lois Losaw.
He leaves three sons and their wives; James E. and Carol of Russell, Bruce W. and Carolyn of Feeding Hills, Alan F. and Gail of Westfield. He also leaves eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother Wallace of Southwick, a sister Pearl Patino of Agawam and his special friend Marilyn Warchol.
Firtion Adams Funeral Home, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA is in charge of arrangements. Calling hours are Friday, August 18th, 4-7 p.m. and Saturday, August 19th 10-11 a.m., followed by a funeral service and burial in Russell Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104 or First Congregational Church, Broad St., Westfield, MA 01085.
