Obituary of Richard David Rapiti

Richard David Rapiti, 76, passed away at home in Toms River on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Born in Jersey City, Richard grew up in Roselle and graduated from Roselle Catholic High School.  He continued his studies at Emerson College of Boston and received his B.A. in Speech with a minor in Broadcasting.  Rich went on to reside in Scotch Plains as well as Glen Ridge before settling in Toms River.

Richard began his career in the Broadcasting and Radio Industry with WRFM as a Senior Account Executive.  He was later hired as a Director of Retail Sales with WCBS/FM in New York City.  From 1982-1987, he held the position of General Manager at WJDM and also worked at WBGO/FM and WOR Radio Network as Affiliate Representation.  Since 2013, Richard worked as a consultant for Radio Cats, LLC, specializing in Broadcast Management.

Rich was a lifelong animal lover and contributed to many animal organizations and local shelters.

Predeceased by his parents, Lenore and Angelo N. Rapiti; Richard was also predeceased by his companion of thirteen years, Stuart Goldburg. 

He leaves behind his sister, Linda Zushma and her husband, Michael of South Plainfield; nephews, Jason Bopp and his partner, Dominic Benevento of South Orange, Rich Bopp of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Kenneth Zushma and wife Elizabeth of Kinnelon; nieces, Melinda Walters and husband Peter of Branchburg and Chrisann Palmieri and husband Patrick of Boonton as well as his five grandnieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to join together for Richard’s funeral services on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 11:15AM at Hillside Cemetery, Scotch Plains NJ.