William P. “Bill” Rapuano, Sr.

William P. “Bill” Rapuano, Sr., age 72, of Bear, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.

Born on February 12, 1948 in Wilmington, DE, he was a son of the late Leon J. and Rose Ann (DiPietro) Rapuano.

After graduating from Conrad High School in 1967, Bill enlisted in the US Army. He proudly served his country for several years, including a year and a half in Panama. After he was honorably discharged, Bill worked for his father’s iron business while also attending Goldey-Beacom College. Starting his lifelong career as an iron worker, he went on to own and operate Rapuano’s Ornamental Iron for several years. Bill finally worked for, and eventually retired from, Steel Suppliers, Local 502.

Bill was known to be a man’s man who enjoyed all sports, including golf and professional wrestling. He also enjoyed antiquing, cooking, and a good cup of coffee. Most of all, Bill loved spending time with his family, especially his children and granddaughter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Catherine Fusco and Leon Rapuano, Jr. Bill will be dearly missed by his children, William P. Rapuano, Jr. and Heather Thomas (Kevin); granddaughter, Ashley Rizzi (Vincent); and his two favorite Cairn Terriers, his granddogs, Guiness and Sheldon.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:30 pm until 7 pm on Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE. Face masks will be required for all in attendance. Services and entombment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Delaware Humane Association, 701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801.