Thomas Anthony Yapelli Sr.

Crystal Lake—Thomas Anthony Yapelli, Sr., 69, of Crystal Lake died peacefully August 9, 2010, at home with his devoted wife and granddaughter, Camille, at his side.

Thomas was born on February 17, 1941, in Chicago to Florence and Thomas Yapelli. He married Camille B. Staniewicz on June 9, 1962, at St. Mary’s of the Angels Church in Chicago. Thomas graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago as a certified public accountant. He began his career at Lester Witty, Inc. in Chicago and over time developed his own accounting firm in Crystal Lake in 1981.

Thomas was an honorable accountant who helped many people in the community, regardless of their situation or financial status. He was also a passionate contributor to the community in many ways. Thomas was a dedicated member of the Lions Club as their treasurer, and was a founder and committee chairman for the Shop with a Cop program. He also received a public service award from the Crystal Lake Jaycees for outstanding community service.

He was an active member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Crystal Lake. He also spent time golfing with friends, gardening, caring for other family members, fine dining, and sharing his love of LGB trains with the public. Thomas was a creative cook and enjoyed cooking out for his family. He was also a regular at Andy’s Family Restaurant because of the warmth and friendship extended to him. He enjoyed classical music and opera, and was a frequent attendee at the Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake. As a youngster Thomas played the tuba and piano.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 48 years, Camille; two sons, Thomas (Melissa) Yapelli of Columbus, Indiana and John Yapelli of Palatine; two daughters, Maria Stowe of Cary and Jennifer (Jeff) Davies of Poplar Grove; six grandchildren, Allison (fiancé Joel White), Camille, Heather, Anthony, Benjamin, and Brenna; a sister, Mimi (Jim) Geiger of Algonquin; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Thomas leaves many loved friends in the community behind, whom he honored with his dedication by serving the community. He also leaves behind dear friends, Jim Zambon, Dennis McCabe, Bob Zellmann, Jack McCarthy, and Mike Foreman. He will be fondly remembered by his business partner Jim Gioia and his many clients.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-mother, Grace; his brother, Alexander; and his special uncle, Frank Saraceno.

Friends may meet the family from 4 to 9pm on Friday, August 13, at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home, 500 W. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake. There will be a sharing of memories service at 7pm.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, August 14, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 451 W. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake.

At Tom’s request please omit flowers, instead memorials may be made in his name to McHenry County Police Charities-Shop with a Cop, P.O. Box 981, Crystal Lake, IL 60039 or the Lions Club, P.O. Box 48, Crystal Lake, Illinois, 60039-0048.

For information call the funeral home at 815-459-1760. Online condolences may be made at www.querhammerandflagg.com.