Ronald Caporali Sr.

Ronald V. Caporali Sr. Ph.D., 84, of West Sunbury passed away Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, at the Good Samaritan Hospice in Cabot.

He was born June 22, 1936, in New Kensington, and was the son of the late Gustave and Letitia Succo Caporali.

After graduating from Arnold High School in 1954, he attended Penn State, earning a B.S. degree in mineral industries, later returning in 1962, where he earned his master’s degree in 1964, and later his Ph.D. in ceramic science in 1969. This was accomplished all while being employed as an assistant in the ceramic science department and starting his family.

Dr. Caporali served as a consultant to the glass industry, traveling to many different states and countries, giving his expert advice to industry professionals, while making many friends along the way.

Known as a professional to most, he was better known as “Papa” to his family. He was a worldly man with many interests that ranged from traveling, scuba diving, astronomy, bird watching, yard work, football and much more.

He was always encouraging those he loved to look for the opportunity to learn and explore the world around them. From traveling the world, to tea parties with his great-grandchildren, he cherished every moment with the ones he loved. He loved his family dearly, always looking forward to making new memories or was just as happy sitting and reminiscing.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 64 years, Carol (Wagner); three daughters, Leslie (Tom) Gorham of West Sunbury, Carrie Powell of Sunbury, Ohio, and Amy (Bill) Dellich of West Sunbury; and one son, Ronald V. Caporali Jr. (Cheryl) of West Sunbury.

Also surviving are six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brother, Carl of New Kensington; his sister, Sylvia Radovich of Penn Hills; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Billy Dellich; and numerous relatives.

CAPORALI — Per his request, there will be no public viewing for Ronald V. Caporali Sr., Ph.D., who died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 140 New Castle Road, Butler.

Donations may be made in his memory to the North Trails Library, 1553 West Sunbury Road, West Sunbury, PA 16061.