Richard Z. Rupert

Richard Z. Rupert, 91, of Derry, passed away July 26, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family.  He was born March 2, 1933 in Derry a son of the late Ivan R. and Rachel (Zundel) Rupert and was actually born and died in the same house that has been in his family for over 100 years.  Rich was a member of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latrobe.  He was a U.S Army veteran during the Korean conflict having served as corporal from March 17, 1953 to January 4, 1955.  Rich was retired from Derry Westinghouse and was a life member of the Derry VFD after joining in October of 1952 and served as assistant chief from 1965 to December 1974.  He was active answering the alarm for 53 years before serving as the department chaplain.  Rich was a PA state fire instructor teaching firefighters for several decades.  He was chair of the planning committee for Westmoreland County Community training center and was also a member of the Westmoreland Archaeological Society Chapter #23.  Rich is survived by his two sons Richard M. (Lynne) of St. Mary's, GA, and Steven P. Rupert of Houston, TX. Two daughters; Laura L. "Lori" Gunsallus (Jack) of Derry and Nancy A. Fiorina (John) of Latrobe. 8 grandchildren; Eric Rupert (Angie), Jason Rupert, Kasey Davidson (Michael), Ivan Rupert (Heather), Laura Evard (Andrew), Richard Kisic (Rachel), Kirstie Dolan (Troy) and Shayna Fiorina and fiance Tyler Walburn.  11 great grandchildren; Nicholas Patrick and Abigail Erica Rupert, Brandon Hunter, Nathan Dawson and Lindsey Ashlynne Orum, Ashton Charlotte and Harper James Davidson, Logan Michael Kisic, Lydia Jo Dolan, Elijah Wayne and Noah Andrew Evard; a brother Philip R. Rupert (Flo) of Derry, and sister-in-law Eleanor Rupert and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents Rich is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Patricia L. (Clawson) Rupert, a brother David I. Rupert and a sister Peggy McChesney.   
All services and interment are private.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Derry VFD, 116 E. 2nd Ave. Derry PA 15627.
McCabe Funeral Home, 300 W. Third Avenue, Derry.
Online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomes.com.