Ralph P. Joseph, 70, longtime of Echo Cove Road, Hamilton, died Wednesday August 13, 2008 in his home following his sudden illness.

Born in Beverly May 29, 1938, the son of Eleanor (Peterson) Joseph of Essex and the late Roland T. Joseph, he was educated in Essex public and Gloucester public schools from which he graduated. Mr. Joseph was employed for many years as an auto and truck mechanic at his  family’s Gaybrook Garage in Essex. Following the sale of the garage he went to work as a mechanic for Hiltz waste disposal of Gloucester where he was currently employed.

Mr. Joseph was an avid Red Sox fan. Most of all he enjoyed helping and socializing with his friends at Perkins Marine in Essex.

In addition to his mother he is survived by a son, John Joseph of Rockport; two daughters, Linda M. Joseph of Rockport and Kelley Allen of Exeter, NH; two brothers, Robert T. Joseph of Essex and Ronald E. Joseph of CT; a sister, Kay L. Joseph of Essex and many nephews and nieces.

His funeral will be held Tuesday Aug. 19 at  10 am in the Whittier-Porter Funeral Home, 6 High Street, Ipswich, followed by interment in the Spring Street Cemetery, Essex. Family and friends are respectfully welcomed. Visiting hours are Monday 4 to 8 pm. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to Nevins Farm – MSPCA, 400 Broadway Ave., Methuen, MA 01844-2052.