Mary (Peperati) Rappa

Mrs. Mary (Peperati) Rappa, age 99, a lifelong Utican who formerly made her home on Lansing St., passed away on Saturday, March 11, 2006 at the St. Joseph Nursing Home where she had most recently resided. Her family was by her side at the time of her passing. Born in Utica on October 20, 1906, Mary was the daughter of the late Guiseppe and Caterina (Simbari) Peperati. She was raised here and attended local schools. At one time she was married to Tito Rappa who passed away on May 13, 1987. For many years Mrs. Rappa was employed with the Joseph & Feiss Co. She retired in 1972. Her greatest pleasure and satisfaction came from her enjoyment of her home and family life with her children and, most especially, her grandchildren. She considered it one of her greatest accomplishments that she shared meaningful relationships with her family members which were filled with mutual love, loyalty, and respect. Among her favorite pastimes, Mary liked to travel, and she also enjoyed many domestic activities, such as knitting, cooking, and baking. She was a spiritual woman who said the rosary every day with personal intentions for good health and peace in her family. Her home parish was St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church. Mrs. Rappa is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Francine K. and George D. Spinelli of Utica; 2 sons and daughters-in-law, Benny and Antoinette Rappa of Utica, and Joseph and Arlene Rappa of Buffalo; and her grandchildren, Candace Spinelli of Deansboro and her fiancé Don Martin, Mary Catherine Spinelli-Preston and her husband David of Lake Placid, Joseph G. Spinelli of Utica, Paul and Ginny Rappa of VA, Mark Rappa of Utica and Cheryl Rappa, Michele Rappa of Las Vegas NV, Ben Jr. and Michelle Rappa of Myrtle Beach SC, Rebecca Rappa, and Jolene Rappa, both of Buffalo. Mary was preceded in death by a beloved and adored granddaughter, Pamela M. Spinelli; and a grandson, George Joseph Spinelli who passed away in infancy. Also surviving are her great-grandchildren: Marc and Matthew; Dana, Danielle, and Jacquelyn; and Julianna. In addition, her survivors include many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; her in-laws, Mary Barbuto, Phil Nicastro, both of Frankfort, and Frank DeRosa of Utica; and her longtime and dear friend, Florence Gigliotti. She was predeceased by a brother, Anthony “Tony” Peperati; and a sister with whom she shared a special closeness, Josephine P. Pape and Josephine’s husband, Michael “Spike” Pape. The family extends its sincere gratitude to all those associated with the St. Joseph Nursing Home, including the following: the administrators; the Carmelite Sisters, especially Sister Patricia, Sister Robert, and Sister Xavier; Kim, the activities director; the members of the Carmelite Guild; the personnel of the 4th floor, especially Jennifer, Desiree, Maureen, and Cheryl. They were always informative and knowledgeable, keeping the lines of communication open with compassionate and caring concern. Great love and respect was offered not only to Mary, but also to her family members who deeply appreciated their efforts and success in “making their home—her home.” Visitation will be held on Monday (this afternoon) from 3-4 at the St. Joseph Nursing Home Chapel. Mary’s Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 4:00 p.m. immediately following visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Mary’s honor to the St. Joseph’s Nursing Home; envelopes will be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mary (Peperati) Rappa

October 20, 1906 - March 11, 2006