Submitted by: Dan Rich

Joseph A. Rappelli

Nov. 27, 1924 - Aug. 3, 2003

South Bend Tribune 8/6/2003

Joseph A. Rappelli, 78, of U.S. 31 South, South Bend, Ind., passed away at 10:35 a.m., Sunday, August 3, after a short illness. He was born on Nov. 27, 1924, in Michigan City, Ind., to Dominic and Leonarda (Tobia) Rappelli.

On July 28, 1956, he married Frances Vitale in Chicago, Ill., who survives him. They have been residents of South Bend for 58 years. Joseph is survived by his wife Frances; two sons, Dominic L. (Karen) Rappelli of Dowagiac, Mich. and Joe J. (Jeanne) Rappelli of Granger, Ind.; four grandchildren, Rachel, L. J., Dominic and Nick. He is also survived by his twin sister, Mary; and sister, Leeann.

He was in business for 43 years as a owner of Guiseppe's Restaurant in South Bend from which he retired in 1991. He was a member of the Sheriff's Posse for 30 years. He was a World War II veteran and a member of the American Legion, Post 50 and the Knights of Columbus. Also, a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish.

Visitation hours will be from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. today, Aug. 6, in McGann Funeral Home on Edison Road in South Bend. The Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. today. Funeral Services will be in the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 63568 U. S. 31 South, South Bend, on Thursday, Aug. 7, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at Southlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County.