New Bedford, MA – John J. Rapoza Jr., age 65 years, died Monday, May 18, 2009 at St. Luke’s Hospital. He was the husband of Brenda (Gonsalves) Rapoza of N. Dartmouth. They were married for 48 years.
Mr. Rapoza was the father of Tracey Maher, and husband Ed Maher and Terri Carando, and husband Kevin Carando both of Mattapoisett, Tricia Rapoza of Dartmouth and the late Steven Rapoza. He was the grandfather of Caitlyn and Christopher Carando, Paige Loftus and Logan and Landon Maher. Mr Rapoza was the brother of Mary Whiteman and Tony Ponte of Florida, Linda Spiros of Michigan, David Rapoza of PA., Tom Rapoza of Conn. and the late Arlene Ackerman. He was also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Rapoza was a son of the late John J. Rapoza Sr. and Angelina Ponte, stepson of Jeannette Rapoza of New Bedford and stepson of the late Domingo Ponte. He was born in New Bedford and lived in this area all of his life. John was formerly employed by Morse Twist Drill until its closing and retired from American Medical Instruments in 2007, where he worked as a production manager.
Mr. Rapoza was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather who cherished his family above all else. His family was his pride and joy. John also loved to golf, watch his grandson play baseball, work on pet projects and travel. He had a big heart full of kindness and generosity. Mr. Rapoza touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
Mr. Rapoza’s funeral will be held Friday at The Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. at 10:30 A.M. with Services beginning at 11 A.M. Burial will follow at Rural Cemetery. Visiting Hours are Thursday from 5 – 8 P.M. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.