BRANCHBURG Ralph M. Truppi Jr., 67, died Sunday, (July 27, 2008) at Somerset Medical Center in Somerville. Born in Morristown, he formerly resided in North Plainfield before moving to Branchburg 32 years ago.

Mr. Truppi served in the Army Reserves from 1977 to 1983.

Ralph was self-employed as a professional race car engine builder and was inducted into the National Hot Rod Association Hall of Fame-Northeast Division. He was responsible for more than 100 NHRA national records. He was the owner of the 1997 Bridgeport Speedway Sportman Championship car, driven by his son, Brian, and maintained by his son, Michael. Ralph was a former coach of both the Branchburg travel soccer and Branchburg baseball leagues.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 45 years, Laurel Zicha Truppi; his two loving sons, Michael and Brian Truppi, both of Readington and his dear mother, Marian Bernake Truppi of North Plainfield.

A prayer service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, July 31, at the Branchburg Funeral Home, 910 U.S. Highway 202 South, Branchburg, (908) 526-7638. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at the funeral home. For more information or to send condolences, please visit, www.branchburgfuneralhome.com.

  Ralph was not a Bound Brook Resident but was WELL KNOWN around town back in the day as THEE CHEVROLET engine builder & Tuner and is responsible for many NHRA records. May he rest in peace.