Clement J. Rinaldi

1944 - 2022

Clement J. Rinaldi, 77, of Spring Brook Twp., passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, at home surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, the former Madelyn A. (Stefanco). The couple celebrated 55 years of marriage in 2021. Clement was a devout member of the Church of St. Catherine of Siena in Moscow and regularly attended St. Ann's Novena.

Clement was a devoted husband to Madelyn whom he adored. The wife at his side through everything in life. She was his strength as he was hers. They complemented each other and their individual strengths endured. The love they shared spanned almost 60 years and from this union, four children were born. From that moment to the end of his life, his family's needs were his focus. As a father, his love and support were a constant force that guided them to succeed. He was their mentor, protector, adviser and always instilled in them that family came first.

Clement's most important role was being "Pop" to his 10 grandchildren, watching with pride their many achievements, sporting events and recitals. He most cherished the memories he made with them at home.

Born in Taylor, he was the son of the late William J. and Mary (Scariato) Rinaldi. Clement graduated from Old Forge High School in 1962 and attended Wilkes University. In the beginning of his career, Clement was a partner in Northeastern Vending Company. In 1987, he opened Rinaldi Auto Sales in Taylor. For almost 35 years, he operated this successful business with his family. He was fortunate enough to work in an industry that aligned with his passion for cars. Along with the auto sales, he owned several commercial properties. He was a smart, honest, hardworking businessman who also helped others succeed.

As an avid antique automobile enthusiast, Clement attended car shows and was a member of the Pocono Mountain Street Rods Association. He made friends everywhere he went and with his humor he could tell a story like no other. He will be greatly missed.

Clement's family wishes to thank the care team from Allied Services Hospice & Palliative Care and Dr. Anthony Sauter for their compassion and expert care.

In addition to his wife Madelyn, Clement is survived by his children, Clement Rinaldi and his wife, Anna, of Clarks Green; Christine Rinaldi, of Pipersville; Attorney Marisa Rakauskas and her husband, Matthew, of Factoryville; and Dr. Jerome Rinaldi and his wife, Elizabeth, of Bethlehem; his 10 grandchildren, Clement, Dominica, Nicholas and Isabella Rinaldi, Jack and Christian Rinaldi, Matthew and Maribella Rakauskas, and Grace and Celia Rinaldi; his brothers, Anthony J. Rinaldi and his wife, Barbara, of Waverly; and Raymond Rinaldi and his wife, Rosemarie, of Moosic; his sister-in-law, Claire Rinaldi, of Texas; and many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Vito and William; his sister-in-law, Rudolfine; and his nephews, Donald Rinaldi and Anthony J. Rinaldi Jr.

The viewing, Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of St. Catherine of Siena and interment in St. Catherine's Cemetery in Covington Twp. will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Anthony J. Rinaldi Jr. Foundation for Children with Cancer, 538 Biden St., Suite 600, Scranton, PA 18503; or St. Joseph's Center, 2010 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18509.

Arrangements are entrusted to Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Homes & Cremation Services LLC in Spring Brook Twp. To share your fondest memories of Clement, please visit the funeral home's website or Facebook page.