|
|
1919 - 2011
Age: 91
MARCELLETTI, Rudolph "Rudy" A.
Paw Paw
Rudy was born April 28, 1919, in Paw Paw, Michigan, passed away peacefully February 25, 2011. A life long resident of Paw Paw, Michigan, Rudy graduated Paw Paw High School in 1938 and attended Western Michigan Teacher's College (now WMU). He was an outstanding athlete holding several high school track records for many decades. While attending college, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp, eventually earning his pilot wings and rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He was given command of a B-17 "Flying Fortress" in the Pacific Theatre in a special "Air/Sea Rescue Squadron" and island- hopped until the end of World War II. Upon his return from Japan, he received an honorable discharge and began working in his fathers business--one of Paw Paws oldest family owned businesses, Fruit Growers Package Company, established in 1912 and sold in 1982. In 1952 he married his wife Esther, who survives him, along with his son Rudy (Peggy) Marcelletti of Lawton, Michigan, and daughter, Cynthia (Kim) Thomas, of Marcellus, Michigan, four grandchildren, Katie and James Marcelletti, and Rachel and Shelby Thomas; two sisters, Florence Joachim of Marine City, Michigan, and Betty (David) Brown, of Richland, Michigan, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his business partners and brothers, Pat and Frank, and his sisters, Philomena Marcelletti and Yolanda Denner. He is a member of St. Mary"s parish, the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and Sons of Italy Society. Family will receive friends Thursday (March 3) 6 to 8 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw where a vigil service will be held Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. under the auspices of the Paw Paw Knights of Columbus. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday (March 4) 11 a.m. at St. Mary"s Catholic Church, Paw Paw followed by interment with military honors at St. Mary's Cemetery, Paw Paw. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Church or St. Mary's School, Paw Paw. |
|
There are currently 4 condolences.
Phyllis Conner Allen
pallen1127@yahoo.com
Saturday March 5, 2011 at
1:30 PM
|
Esther, Rudy and Cindy, My prayers are with you during this time. Rudy was a wonderful man and neighbor. His memories will live on forever.
|
| |
Jack and Melinda Marcelletti
jfmphd@yahoo.com
Friday March 4, 2011 at
3:41 PM
|
Dear Esther and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Rudy's passing, but relieved that it seemed to have happened peacefully. Unfortunately my family and I are unable to travel from California to attend Rudy's funeral. Melinda and I were lucky to have had the chance to work at the basket factory and got to know Rudy on a closer, personal level. He was always warm and friendly to us and I believe the workers appreciated his good natured demeanor as well. The added benefits of working at "the factory" included the chance to get to know, and appreciate on a more personal basis, other relatives who also worked there, Aunt Esther, Uncle Pat and Cousin Rudy. Working along side my Dad (Frank) was also a blessing for Melinda and me. Rudy was a great person and we will miss him.
Sincerely,
Jack, Melinda, Laura and Mary (Aaron Singh) Marcelletti
|
| |
Betty and David Brown
Monday February 28, 2011 at
12:16 PM
|
Dear Esther and Family,
We are so sorry and saddened that we cannot be with you at this time, but too many miles separate us.
Rudy was always a special brother, and he was so good to me when I was growing up.
We want you to know that he is in our prayers. We will see you in April.
Betty and Dave Brown
|
| |
Florence Joachim
Monday February 28, 2011 at
9:27 AM
|
Dear Esther and Family,
I was so saddened to learn of Rudy's passing. He could not have been a better brother. He was always kind and considerate.
I wish I could be with you at this sad time, but that is not possible. Just know that my thoughts are with you, and my prayers are with Rudy.
Florence (Marcelletti) Joachim
|
| |
|
