James Andrew Rapczyk, Sr., was born on November 25, 1957, in Hollis, Queens, New York, son of Joan and Frank Rapczyk. He was raised in Amityville.

James grew up alongside his siblings Laura, Frank, Fred, John Max, and his late brother Harold “Skipper.” As a young man, he split his time between Long Island and summers spent on his Uncle Harold and Aunt Bea’s farm in Virginia—experiences that shaped his lifelong self-reliance and appreciation for honest work. There, he learned responsibility early, even mastering a tractor by the age of nine. He also spent a year attending high school in Virginia, experiences he carried with him throughout his life.

A graduate of Amityville Memorial High School, Class of 1975, James attended Lewis A. Wilson Technological Center, where he met the love of his life, Dianne Ierulli. The two were married on May 5, 1979, beginning a partnership that would span 46 years.

James began his professional life in lithography, working in a printing press before eventually moving into property management, a field well-suited to his natural talents. A big, burly man with a warm smile and an easygoing nature, he was known for his ability to fix just about anything. His reputation for being “well aware” of how things worked became a familiar and affectionate refrain among family and friends. Whether repairing a home, helping a neighbor, or offering quiet guidance, he was always ready to lend his skills to others.

Above all else, James was a family man. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Dianne; his children, James Rapczyk, Jr. (Karra), Donna Sheehan (Tim), and Daniel Rapczyk (Katie); and his cherished grandchildren, Ryan, Aurora, and Andrew. 

James was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in hunting, fishing, and hiking. He took pride in his home, his work, and the life he built through persistence and care. A devout Catholic, he attended Mass regularly and instilled his faith and values in his children, leading by example with humility and quiet conviction.

Those who knew James will remember his humor, his generous spirit, and the warmth he brought into every room. He was fun to be around, quick with a smile, and always willing to help—especially when his hands and experience could make a difference.

James Andrew Rapczyk, Sr. leaves behind a legacy not only of hard work and faith, but of love, steadiness, and family. His life is carried forward in the values he passed on and in the generations who were fortunate enough to call him husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Jim’s memorial fund at https://gofund.me/47a265a65 or make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory James.