Louise A Cantoni Tappella

Tappella, Louise A., peacefully passed into Heaven on February 25th, 2014, after 100 years on Earth. Louise is survived by her daughter-in-law, Rose; granddaughters Jackie Tappella and Jodie (Tony) Capecchi; great-grandsons, Michael and Dominic; and sisters- and brother-in-law, Mary, Katie and Richard Tappella, and Gerry Varner, along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; son, Denis; parents, Rose and Enrico Cantoni; and siblings Michael (Gerry) Cantoni, Mary (Ransom) Rancilio, Flora (Mike) Bertani, and Dorothy (Lester) Guelker.

Born and raised on “The Hill” she was actively involved in St. Ambrose Catholic Parish, a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Sodality, and The Hill 2000. For many years she participated in St. Ambrose’s parish La Festa and their annual Corpus Christi procession where clergy celebrated benediction at the street altar at her long-time and meticulously maintained Edwards Street residence. During WWII when her husband, Joe, left for war she skillfully took over his management of several movie theaters throughout St. Louis. Later, for over 30 years, Louise worked for the St. Louis Cardinals in group ticket sales. She took great pride in her work accounting for every penny of millions of dollars in sales.

Starting with her marriage to the love of her life, Joe, in 1935, followed by the birth of their son, Denis, in 1941, she found no greater joy and happiness in life than being surrounded by her family. Frequent celebrations, dances, and gatherings with her parents, siblings, in-laws and extended family are what her life centered upon. She embraced her 100% Italian heritage and Catholic faith, often reminding her family there was no better place on Earth than St. Louis, The Hill, and St. Ambrose Parish. She took a leap of faith in 1998 moving up to Minnesota to be closer to her son, Denis, and his family. During her years in Minnesota she developed an immense bond with her great-grandsons, Michael and Dominic, who created many laughs and fostered much joy for her. Yet, she would often speak fondly of her friends, family and life back in St. Louis.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Ambrose Catholic Parish on Monday, March 10th at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery will follow the funeral Mass with a short service in the cemetery chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Ambrose Parish or The Sick and Elderly Program of The Hill. Wise Family Funeral Home of Hastings, Minnesota, and Calcaterra Funeral Home on The Hill shared the preparation of arrangements.

Condolences may be offered at www.calcaterrafuneral.com