Bow, NH – Donald M. Rapoza, age 91, of Knox Road, passed away on November 20, 2025, at his home after a period of declining health.
He was born in Fairhaven, MA, the son of the late Frank and Irene (Medeiros) Rapoza. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean War.
Donald worked for the State of New Hampshire DES, Water Resources Division, for over 33 years until his retirement in 1994, concluding his career as Assistant Chief Engineer. He was deeply dedicated to service, spending many years volunteering with the Christ the King Food Pantry. He was always a helpful neighbor, often plowing a driveway or repairing small engines, and he was involved in his community through his work at the local baseball fields and his time as a 4-H leader.
To his grandchildren he was “Papa,” and to his great-grandchildren he was “Big Papa,” titles he carried with great pride. He loved spending time with his dog May, and his beloved German Shepherd, Holly.
He was predeceased by his wife, Anita (Brito) Rapoza, who passed in 2008, and by his son, Mark D. Rapoza, who passed in 2022.
He is survived by his daughter, Lynn Magnuson (Brett); his son, Steven Rapoza (Maureen) of South Lyon, MI; his daughter-in-law, Elsie Rapoza of Gilmanton; his brother, Kenneth Rapoza (Gail) of Rocky Hill, CT; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, December 4th from 4 to 7 PM at the Waters Funeral Home, 50 South Main Street, Concord.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 5th at 10:30 AM at Christ the King Parish, 72 South Main Street, Concord.
Burial with Military Honors will be held on Friday, December 5th at 1 PM in the Nh Veterans Cemetery, DW Highway, Boscawen, NH.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to Christ the King Food Pantry, 72 South Main Street, Concord, NH 03301, or to the Pope Memorial SPCA, 94 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH 03301.
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