Emidio "Ted" Rapone

Emidio “Ted” Rapone was a man whose life was marked by faith, devotion, hard work, and deep love for the people God placed in his path. Born on August 13, 1955, in Queens, New York, Ted was the firstborn son of Robert and Marion Rapone. As the oldest of five children—brother Bobby and sisters Karen, Christine, and Lori—Ted naturally stepped into the role of leader early in life, a role that would define him for decades to come.

Ted spent his formative years learning the value of discipline, loyalty, and perseverance. He attended high school in Newark, Delaware, where he not only excelled academically but also athletically. It was there that Ted met the love of his life, Cathy, and formed friendships that would last a lifetime. As captain of the football team, Ted led by example, earning a place on the All-Star team—an early indication of his determination, integrity, and ability to inspire others.

After high school, Ted attended the University of Delaware, but his heart was being drawn toward something deeper. He answered God’s call and transferred to Bible College in Fort Wayne, Indiana, later continuing his education at Huntington University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. His academic journey did not stop there. Ted went on to Concordia Seminary, receiving a Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies. In total, Ted spent nine years pursuing higher education, not for prestige, but out of a sincere calling to minister, lead, and faithfully teach God’s Word.

Ted’s ministry was not just a profession—it was a calling he lived out daily. His first pastoral church was in South Sippio in Harlan in 1982, and during those early years of ministry, Ted poured himself fully into the lives of others.

While leading the church in Delaware, Ted also worked as a carpenter, building homes and developing an appreciation for craftsmanship. This work reflected who he was: someone who believed in building things that mattered—whether they were houses, churches, or people.

Ted was deeply committed to serving his community beyond the pulpit. Ted was President of the Crisis Pregnancy Center and helped managed the Right to Life organization, standing firmly and compassionately for the sanctity of life. He also was President of the Northeast Indiana Christian Action Council. His faith was not theoretical; it was active, courageous, and lived out through service.

In 1992, Ted and Cathy moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, where they would finally settle and raise their family. Ted continued preaching at Church of the Good Shepherd in Leo, Indiana, serving faithfully for several years before retiring. His pastoral ministry spanned over 30 years, and through those decades, he shepherded countless people with wisdom, humility, and love.

Even while preaching in Fort Wayne, Ted worked at Wieland/Sauder from 1992 to 2026 as a Special Projects Manager. He carried himself with the same integrity in the workplace as he did in the church, showing others what it looked like to live out faith through everyday work.

While Ted was still pursuing his education, he married Cathy on May 22, 1976. Their marriage was the great love story of his life. Ted was a devoted husband, a hopeful romantic, and never stopped chasing Cathy around the house. Their love was playful, deep, and enduring—a partnership built on faith, laughter, and unwavering commitment.

Ted was the proud father of three daughters: Lori, Liz, and Connie. Of all his roles in life—pastor, teacher, craftsman—being a father was his greatest joy, second only to being Cathy’s husband. He was fully present in his daughters’ lives, teaching them, encouraging them, and showing up again and again.

He loved taking his girls on beach trips, where hours were spent swimming, playing games in the ocean, and making memories that would last a lifetime. Ted also shared his love of sports with his daughters, teaching them how to play softball and serving as their coach for many years in the Grabill Summer Leagues. He and Cathy never missed a game—whether it was high school softball or Liz’s college games. Their presence was constant, supportive, and full of pride.

Ted loved riding his motorcycle, often taking long road trips across the country in search of adventure and great places to eat. He had a deep love for reading that began in childhood and stayed with him throughout his life. His favorite author was C.S. Lewis, whose writings resonated deeply with Ted’s faith, intellect, and imagination.

He was a master storyteller, gifted with detail, expression, and timing. His stories could make a room erupt with laughter, and no one ever minded hearing them again—year after year—because they were always told with such joy and excitement.

Ted was also a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He showed his love by being present—attending sporting events, playing board games and cards, leading Bible studies, teaching lessons big and small, and simply spending time together. He cherished watching his grandchildren grow and passing down his faith and wisdom.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy Rapone; his daughters Lori, Liz, and Connie; his son-in-law Matt; his grandchildren Austin, Kaleb and Jordan, Jackson, Alea, Nathen, and Pagie; his great-grandchildren Creed and Teddy; and his sisters Christine and Lori.

Ted Rapone lived a life of purpose, faith, and love. His legacy is not only found in the churches he led or the work he accomplished, but in the people he loved so deeply and faithfully. His life was a testimony—one that will continue to speak through every life he touched.