Sterling Hugh Rapposelli, Sr.

Sterling H. Rapposelli, Sr., 89, of Perryville, MD passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2014 at Harford Memorial Hospital.  He was surrounded by his loving wife Ida, children, and grandchildren when he went to meet our Lord.  He was preceded in death by his parents Dominic and Theresa (D’Andreamatteo), and his brothers Silvestro and Rocci. As a World War II Veteran, Sterling was proud to serve his country as a member of the United States Army.  Sterling married the love of his life Ida and together they enjoyed 62 wonderful years of marriage.  As the father of five children Sterling loved spending time with his wife, children, son-in-laws, daughter-in-laws, and grandchildren.  His family was his pride and joy. Sterling retired from Amtrak as an Electrician’s Foreman after 44 years of loyal and dedicated service.  To his coworkers he was affectionately known as “Rappy”, and was proud to be the first Italian-American promoted to Foreman at the Wilmington Railroad Shops.  He took great pride in being able to say that he designed and built his family’s home.  He loved gardening and was known for growing the best and biggest tomatoes in town.  He always worked hard and encouraged his children and grandchildren to follow the example he set, and take pride in their work.  Sterling was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Parish, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion. As a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Sterling is survived by his wife Ida (Sacco), his children Dominic Rapposelli and wife Mary Ellen, Carmella Roth and husband Jim, Lisa Holman and husband Phil, Tom Rapposelli and wife Karen, Sterling Rapposelli, Jr. and wife Tish, and his grandchildren Jim, Stephanie, Dominic, Erin, Joseph, Jennifer, Matthew, Angelina, Sterling III, Emily, Taylor, Thomas, and Calla.  He is also survived by his brother William Rapposelli and wife Ann, his sister-in-laws Gina DiPilla, Mary Ann Rapposelli, Helen Rapposelli, and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 810 Aiken Avenue, Perryville, MD on Monday, March 31, 2014 at 11:00am, where family and friends may visit from 10-11am.  Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Sterling’s family suggests contributions in his memory to Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Perryville, MD, in care of Lee A. Patterson & Son Funeral Home, P.A., P.O. Box 766, Perryville, MD 21903-0766. Arrangements By Lee A. Patterson & Son Funeral Home, P.A., Perryville, Maryland Prayer Card Verse