Birth date: Nov 16, 1929 Death date: Jun 13, 2026
Raymond M. “Ray” Rinaldi, 96, a local well-known boxer of Syracuse, passed away June 13, 2026. He was born in Syracuse, son of the late Peter and Josephine (Rosato) Rinaldi. Ray continued his love of boxing for more than 50 years Read Obituary
I never met anyone with such a devotion to helping young people find purpose in their lives when no one else would. Ray was a "Guardian Angel" with boxing gloves and I was honored when he asked me to help him with his gyms. I still have many of the memorabilia that he would acquire for me when he went to numerous functions over the years. The World will shine a little brighter for all the good deeds this man performed while he was here. My Deepest Condolences to Ray's family and all those who were had the privilege of getting one of his hugs as I often did. May God Bless You, my friend, and may you R.I.P.
Growing up knowing Ray was a true blessing honor and a pleasure, Randolph Mattice..
I met Ray at the Syracuse Veterans Hospital a few years back. Being both Italian we got along very well. He knew my grandfather, also a boxer: a 1955 Champion Boxer in the US Navy; and He also knew my Uncle Spike Logan (Logano) who was also a boxer way back too. He was a wonderful man, and I am very sad to have recently found out that he left us! Truly a Legend who will be forever remembered and MISSED! Much Love and Prayers and Sympathy to his family!! Here is a photo of him and a friend of mine, Mark Mossman also who has left us. God Bless you all!!
Sincerely, Michael Anthony Melice
Christian, Veteran, Artist, Poet and Gentleman
US Army Veteran
Rest in peace to a legend. You were always on my grandfather's nice list. Condolences to the whole family.
The Case and Galluzzo families
My pops, my coach, my best friend, my hero!
Thank you for allowing me to join your boxing program many years ago. Thank you for believing in me and always pushing me to work harder and achieve more. I met my best friends in your program. I fell in love with my wife in your program. I learned skills, that have guided and shaped my life. As a coach for you, we built a lighthouse on the Westside and Northside that have shined so brightly for so many youth. You are truly a God send. I’ll spend the rest of my life sharing your stories, knowledge, and wisdom. What an honor it is to be Rayskidz!!! Saint Ray Thank you, for being you. You believed in me so much, I started to believe in myself.
My sincere condolences to all that knew Ray. I first met Ray as a child in the 1970's. He and most of his brothers were friends with my dad "Dickie" and his brothers. My dad was in the fighting game a little but my Uncle Pat even more so. Then on my mothers "Peggy" side, my Cousin Patsy "the Bull" Fiumano had a forever relationship with Ray that continued until Patsy passed away just a few short years ago. Ironically in 2001 I bought my home across the street from his brother Ben and wife Josie (Grandma & Grandpa) as my children use to call them. Who then recruited myself and my children to help out at a few of Rays Golden Glove events to include the Christmas parties he had for under privileged children and their families. Ray will be fondly missed. The world needs more Ray's..
Christine, my condolences to you and your family. Ray was truly a great man. His legendary status will forever be ingrained in those who have known him especially the many kids he befriended and helped through his boxing programs. He had a remarkable way with people and an infectious charisma which drew people in from all walks of life to share in his passion for helping the youth in our community. I am honored to have known Ray and privileged to have spent time together with him, Joe, Christine and the many people who passed through those doors during the Pond Street days.
Paul Macor
