Obituary of Giovanni Rapisarda

Giovanni Rapisarda "Johnny" 1947 - 2015 Giovanni "Johnny" Rapisarda passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at his home in Cranbrook at the age of 68. Giovanni was born on August 5, 1947 in Fiumefreddo, Sicily to Francesca and Francesco Rapisarda. In December of 1951 he made the journey from Sicily by boat to Canada where he then traveled by train with his mother and sister to join his father in Nelson. Despite being an automotive mechanic by trade, his love for trains eventually led him to a lifelong career with CP Rail. In 1973, he returned to Sicily where he married Carmela Previtera and return to Nelson where they built their first home together by hand, had three children, and began raising their young family. In 1987, he moved to Cranbrook, BC with his family and continued working for CP until his retirement. Johnny was a true outdoorsman: he enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, and anything to do with being outside. He shared his love of travel with his family, returning often to his native Sicily, where his presence was cherished. He enjoyed working on his Jeep and tinkering with any type of engine - he could fix anything. No car went un-serviced in the family fleet; his children could count on having their vehicles' fluids topped off and tires inflated to proper pressure before hitting the road. Johnny loved spending time with his wife, Carmela, attending to his farm animals, working in the yard and gardens, and drinking coffee while enjoying the mountain view. He treasured the time and laughter he shared with his children. He cherished many precious moments with his grandchildren at the barn. He also had numerous dogs throughout his life that he loved very much. Johnny was a loving and loyal husband and father. He will be deeply missed. Giovanni is survived by his wife, Carmela; their children, Frank (Andrea) Rapisarda, Mary (Marc) Fennell, and Elisa Rapisarda; their grandchildren, Giovanni, Evangeline, Giuliano, and Elliana; his mother, Francesca; and his sister, Felicia. He was predeceased by his father, Francesco. Prayers for Johnny will be held at Christ The Servant Catholic Church in Cranbrook on Monday, September 21, 2015 at 7:00 pm. His funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at Christ The Servant Catholic Church in Cranbrook at 10:00 am. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com