James Rapasardi

James Rapasardi died at his home in Grand Junction, Colorado on November 21, 2019. He was 85.

He was born to Italian immigrants on July 9, 1934 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The traumatic birth under which he was born left his mother dead and James with brain damage. His father was sent home to raise his infant son with six other children on a sheep ranch between between Rifle and Glenwood Springs.

At age seven, the family felt that they could no longer care for James. They brought him to the Regional Center where James lived until 1999.

James enjoyed long walks, roses, chocolate, and strong coffee. He also enjoyed antique hot rod cars, and shooting basketball hoops. In his younger days he participated in the Special Olympics. His caregivers were his family and they gave him a full life. He was an excellent artist. His art was displayed at St. Mary's Hospital.

James was preceded in death by his mother, Concetta Rapasardi; father, Angelo Rapasardi; brothers, Aspirino Rapasardi and Mike Rapasardi; sisters, Anna Favre, Jennie Krumle, and Mary Cummings. He is survived by his sister, Angelina Newell of Orlando, and loving nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be on December 11 at 3:00 PM at Brown's Chapel