Jesus Rapolla

Jesus Chargualaf Rapolla, known to most as “Jesse”, passed away at his home in Pasadena, Maryland on September 28, 2020. Jesse was born in Guam on July 3, 1938 to his late parents, Francisco T. Rapolla and Maria Salas Rapolla. After graduating from George Washington High School, he joined the U.S. Army and proudly served his country for 20 years, first as a Tanker Soldier during the Vietnam War, then as a Professional Draftsman until he retired with an honorable discharge in 1978. During his military career, he had basic training in Hawaii then was stationed in Germany and Texas. Throughout his tenure, he received numerous commendations from his superiors in recognition of his exemplary work, the most notable being The Meritorious Service Medal. Post retirement he had a 20 year career at Koppers/Kaydon, a manufacturing company in Baltimore.

Throughout his life, one of Jesse’s favorite pastimes was fishing, which he did for many years, as well as woodworking in his at home woodshop, which he did once he retired. He also enjoyed cooking, drawing, painting, gardening, walking and weekly breakfast with his good friends. Most of all, he dearly loved his family and friends and enjoyed the time he spent with them. Jesse is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Betty J. Rapolla, his two children, Divina Cloney (husband Robert), Jesus “Chu” Rapolla (wife Jessica), six grandchildren, Anthony Reid, Jessica Smith, Danielle Cloney, Ashley Rapolla, Brianna Rapolla and Cobe Rapolla, and two great-grandchildren, Nicholas Reid and Cali Smith, and the numerous extended family members and friends he felt fortunate to have.

Jesse is also survived by his loving sister, Delores Quinata and was predeceased by his siblings Daniel Rapolla and Charles Rapolla.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic and the limitations for gatherings, services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled Veterans.