Joseph A Paparelli

15 August 1921 - 3 July 2022

Joseph Anthony Paparelli, a true gentleman of one hundred years, died peacefully on 3 July 2022 in Palm Beach, Florida.

At his passing, he was just weeks shy of his 101st birthday.

Joe Paparelli has lived a fulfilling, consequential life... and has garnered love, respect and admiration from all who know and admire him.

Born in North Providence, Rhode Island, Joe Paparelli's brilliance and integrity were apparent from the start, and he thrived as a scholar, athlete (track team member) and industrious, self-made young man. In the process of achieving his degree as a mechanical engineer at the University of Rhode Island, Joe Paparelli was hand-chosen by then-visiting professor Igor Sikorsky to participate in the projects of Sikorsky, one of aviation's greatest designers (often referred to as the "father" of helicopters).

One day, while on a rare break from work and studies, Joe Paparelli spotted the beautiful Immaculate Cimino in a Providence diner, and announced to the owner, "That is the woman I am going to marry."

The owner, who happened to be the brother-in-law of Immaculate, watched along with all who knew them, as the love story of Joseph (born on The Assumption, 15 August) and Immaculate (born on The Immaculate Conception, 8 December) manifested 63 years of marriage, devotion and five children.

Joe and Mackie lived an adventurous life which included years spent in Brazil, where Joe started a gem manufacturing business, and years in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New York, where Joe's career as a brilliant engineer continued to blossom.

As co-owner of KASTAR, INCORPORATED, a New York automotive parts manufacturing company, Joe Paparelli invented and implemented ground-breaking machinery and manufacturing techniques, for which he holds several patents.

Along with his devotion to family, Joe's service to community has been a constant priority.

Joe served as a longtime Bellport, New York Rotarian (serving as president and recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship).

He served as a member of the Board of Directors of Brookhaven Memorial Hospital (now Long Island Community hospital), and is one of the founding owners of Rock Hill Golf and Country Club in Manorville, New York.

During Florida retirement, after the passing of Immaculate Paparelli, Joe moved to Devonshire at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens and spent many active, fulfilling years among friends and companions, including the late Dorothy Clapp.

On his one hundredth birthday, Joe was feted by family, friends and colleagues around the world with awards and honors for his lifelong achievement and exemplary character.

Joe Paparelli was an avid golfer (and former club champion) and a lifelong fitness, sports and cultural enthusiast.

Joseph A. Paparelli is preceded in death by wife Immaculate Paparelli and sons Anthony and Joseph. He is survived by his children, Ronald Paparelli, Judi Paparelli and Deborah Paparelli, grandchildren Patrick Paparelli, Lawrence Minton Jr., Christin Santillo, Mike Santillo, great granddaughter Isabella Santillo... and loving friends, including Dorothy Shrader.

This brilliant, humble, beloved and admired gem is now in the hands of God, in whom Joe deeply believes and to whom Joe is devoted.

Joe Paparelli has lived an extraordinary life as a true gentleman... and we, who have been privileged to know him, shall forever miss him, love him... and honor him.

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There will be a memorial service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Clare Catholic Church, 821 Prosperity Farms Road, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. A graveside service for Joseph will follow immediately after on Saturday, July 23, 2022 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 6026 North Us Highway 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34946.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howard-quattlebaum.com for the Paparelli family.