Obituary of Estella Mae Rapke
Estella Mae Rapke, of the Town of Western, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 11th, 2024, at the age of 94.
Estella was born on October 28th, 1930, in Rome, where she began a long and fulfilling life dedicated to her family, education, and community service. She was the cherished daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Bovee Sherman. Estella graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1948 and pursued her passion for nursing at the Utica School of Nursing, earning her degree in 1951. Her commitment to education continued as she obtained a Bachelor’s of Nursing from Syracuse University, a Master’s of Science in Education from SUNY Cortland, and an advanced degree in Administration from New York University. On August 18, 1951, she was united in marriage to Edwin C. Rapke, at St. John's Lutheran Church; a blessed union of nearly 77 that began in 1947 until his passing on July 24, 2024. Estella devoted her professional career to the Rome City School District where she served as a Registered Nurse. Her compassionate care and dedication to the well-being of her students left a lasting impact on countless lives in the community. For years, she worked for BOCES, Planned Parenthood, and the Oneida County Health Department. She was also instrumental in starting WIC in Herkimer County.
An active and engaged community member, Estella participated in the Wednesday Morning Club and the Ava Dorfman Senior Center. Her involvement in these organizations demonstrated her unwavering commitment to fostering community connections and supporting fellow residents.
Estella is survived by her son, Paul (Lynn) Rapke of Rome; grandchildren, Thomas (Jennifer) Rapke, and Michael (Carley) Rapke; great grandchildren, Ella, Leah, Nora, and Vera; sisters, Betty (Robert) Martinez, and JoAnne (Frederick) Stellato; sister-in-law, Marian Rapke; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sisters, Esther Beers and Barbara Graziano; and brothers, Richard Sherman, Thomas Sherman, and Francis Sherman.
Services will be held at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.
Donations in Estella’s name may be made to the Western Fire Department.
