Obituary of Ralph J. Fava, Jr.

Ralph J. Fava, Jr. passed away October 9, 2018 in Niagara Hospice House.  Born November 3, 1953 in Valdosta, GA he was the son of Ralph J. and Madeline (Pries) Fava, Sr.  Ralph was a 1981 graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and shortly after he established his music store, Lockport Music Center, in 1985.  In 1987, Ralph joined the Lockport Federation of Musicians Local 97, serving as a board member, and past President and Vice President. 

“Ralph focused on putting musicians to work.  He advocated for compensation and professionalism of the art.  He understood personally that it takes time, talent, and discipline to be a good musician.  He respectfully and generously gave of his time to represent the voice of the musician through his leadership in the musicians union.”

-Christina Coyle-Lenz

“Ralph was one of the greatest jazz guitarist to ever come out of Western New York.”

-Dan Dy

He was a successful businessman, accomplished musician playing back up guitarist for many celebrity shows in the WNY area, a dedicated music instructor, and a loving family man.  His zest for life, his sense of humor, and generous nature along with his musical gift will live on in the hearts of those who shared in his journey. 

Ralph is survived by his parents, Ralph J. and Madeline Fava, Sr.; his wife of 39 years Kathleen (Keresztes) Fava; daughters Katherine (Raymond) Bailey, and Maria M. Fava; siblings Christopher Fava, Joseph (Lana Novik) Fava, and Tamre (Dr. Nicholas) Varallo; several nieces and nephews.  Special thank you to his beloved staff at the Lockport Music Center and his musician colleagues. 

Relatives and friends may call Sunday, Oct. 14th from 1-5 PM in Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Oct. 15th at 10 AM in All Saints Parish Oratory, 391 Market St., Lockport.  Interment will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.  Memorial donations to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094 would be appreciated.  Visit pruddenandkandt.com.