Edward J. Rapela, 79, of Erie, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2016, at St. Vincent Hospital. He was born on July 9, 1936, in Erie, son of the late Walter and Mary Mazurski Rapela. A 1955 graduate of Erie Technical High School, he was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during the Vietnam War. He worked as a draftsman for Midwest Homes in Erie prior to entering the service and after his discharge he worked for Kaiser Aluminum for over 30 years. Ed was an expert ceramist winning many local and regional awards and he also taught ceramics. He was a member of the Elks Club, and enjoyed cooking and traveling.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Raymond Rapela.
Survivors include a brother, Paul Rapela and wife Erika of Erie; two aunts, Delores Zawistoski and Marge Rapela, both of Erie; three nieces, Michelle Lacey and husband Walter of Roanoke, VA, Mari Heidt and husband Larry of Springfield, PA and Erin Harper and husband Kevin of Erie; two nephews, Brian Rapela and wife Melissa of Danville, CA and Paul Rapela and wife Suzanne of North East, PA; sister-in-law, Phyllis Rapela of Roanoke, VA; ten grandnieces and grandnephews; and several cousins.
Services are private at the convenience of the family with the Rev. Erik Young of St. John's Lutheran Church officiating. Private burial will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Scott Funeral Home, 2104 Myrtle Street.
Memorials may be made to Project Dignity of St. John's Lutheran Church, 2216 Peach Street, Erie, PA 16502; or to The Salvation Army, 1022 Liberty Street, Erie, PA 16502.
Family and friends may view the on-line obituary and send condolences at www.ScottFuneralHomeErie.com.