RALPH R CLEMENTE's Obituary
CLEMENTE
Born in Germany during WWII, Ralph R. Clemente is fourth generation European show business. At 14 he moved to the U.S., graduating from Sarasota High. Clemente got his SAG card and performed in 70 national TV commercials. He married Emily Hector Clemente, a sixth generation Floridian, in 1977.
While serving as a lecturer and filmmaker-in-residence for 10 years at the University of Miami, The Miami Herald praised Clemente as the “Filmmaker to Watch.” In 2008, Clemente was honored as a “Film Florida Legend.” Clemente is a member of the Directors Guild of America.
Clemente moved to Orlando to help found Valencia College’s film program. Over 26 years, the program produced 47 feature films and numerous public service projects. Many imitate Ralph’s accent and euphemisms, but few could match his enthusiasm and passion for working in film education. He said, “When you can have a positive effect on people’s lives and help them reach their dreams, that is the best reward a teacher can have.” Ralph lived his dream.
Clemente is survived by his wife Emily, son Randolph and wife Allegra, grandchild Valentina; son Parker and fiancée Morgan Pugh: brother Pete Clemente of Oregon, and sister Claudia Fowlkes of Alabama. Private services will be held in Coral Gables. In lieu of flowers, please honor his memory by donating to the “Ralph R. Clemente Scholarship” at Valencia Foundation, 1768 Park Center Drive, Orlando, FL 32835 or complete online donation form by selecting the Designation “Ralph R. Clemente Scholarship” at donate.valencia.org.
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