Joseph R. Rappuchi

Joseph R. “Joe” Rappuchi, 88, of Lititz, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most—his wife of 66 years, Jane, and their three children, Kathryn, Kenan, and Kelly. He lived a life of adventure and curiosity, sharing his generous spirit with family, friends, and people from all walks of life.

Joe was born on January 23, 1938, in Buhl, Minnesota, a small town in the Iron Range. The fifth of eight children born to Eugene and Matilda Babbini Rappuchi, he grew up with an enduring love of baseball and a deep sense of wonder. At age eight he became a devoted Chicago Cubs fan, and at 87, fulfilled his lifelong dream of attending a game at Wrigley Field.

Joe cherished his Buhl education and participated eagerly in drama, debate, and student government. He favored his English and chemistry classes, perhaps laying the foundation for his storytelling gifts and analytical mind.

He went on to earn a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Iowa, where he played baseball, ran track, and met his lifelong partner, Jane Cherveny, at a college dance. They married in Waterloo in 1959 and continued their dance over the decades.

After graduation, Joe set out in search of new opportunities, taking his young family across the country. He worked in the defense industry, materials manufacturing, and sales management before becoming a business owner in Northern Virginia, where the family lived for several decades. He prioritized hard work while carving time for oceanside excursions as well as annual golf and fishing trips. He was an active 4th Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus. After retiring from full-time work, he enjoyed driving a school bus in Leesburg.

In 2001, Joe and Jane relocated to Lititz to be closer to their grandchildren and visit historical sites, villages, and national parks around the country, topping off their wish to see all 50 states. They also explored unique destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, and Belize.

Despite travels near and far, Joe never lost sight of his Midwestern roots or commitment to community. With Jane he hosted countless family celebrations, attended local arts events, relaxed with neighbors, and contributed to charitable causes. For years he attended a weekly men’s breakfast club with an eclectic set of friends.

Joe was inquisitive, cheeky, and always open to fun, informative, informal, or bold experiences. In each of his children he instilled notions of independence and the joys of pursuing their dreams. He loved Italian cooking and heritage, good food, plunges in the ocean, gardening, curling, humor and tending his koi pond. His luck during marathon backgammon or cribbage games was uncanny.

Joe touched lives with his skillful listening, cheerful mindset, and words of encouragement. He maintained his faith, lucidity, and gratitude to the end.

In addition to Jane and their three children—Kathryn Jane Geist (David), Kenan Maris Rappuchi and Kelly Elizabeth Rappuchi—Joe is survived by two sisters, Sharon Casteel, and Patricia Origlieri; two grandchildren, Alyssa Mastrangelo (Derek) and Devin Cenekofsky (Ashley); three great-granddaughters, Haisley, Lainey and Emery Mastrangelo; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, April 15, from 10 - 11 AM at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, followed at 11 AM by a memorial mass in Joe’s honor with The Very Rev. Daniel F.X. Powell, V.F. as Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Saint John Neumann or a charity of your choice.