Obituary of Esther D'Ippolito

Obituary for Esther Amelia Pettisani D'Ippolito Esther Amelia Pettisani D'Ippolito, passed away at the age of 91, on March 23, 2015 in Lafayette, California. She was the youngest child of the late Amelia and Frank Pettisani, and sister to Carmen, Rocco and Louis Pettisani and Mary Pettisani Gregory, all of whom have preceded her in death. Esther attended Vineland High School, where she graced the cheerleading squad. After high school, she worked as a bookkeeper for various local businesses, including the company owned by her future father-in-law, Salvatore D'Ippolito. During World War II, Esther volunteered with the Red Cross, as a driver for England General Hospital in Atlantic City and continued to work with that organization long after the war had ended. In 1948 she married William Charles ("Bill") D'Ippolito and for the next fifty years, competently filled the roles of wife, homemaker and mother to her two daughters, Deirdre and Valerie. During this time, she and Bill enjoyed a long, full life together, traveling back and forth between their homes in Florida and New Jersey, surrounded by family and friends. On Bill's death in 1997, Esther returned to work, and remained at her desk for the next decade before retiring to California. Esther will be fondly remembered for her beauty and grace, consistent kindness to friends in need and unfailing hospitality. She is survived by her daughter, Deirdre D'Ippolito Micek, son-in law, Tim Micek and granddaughter, Valerie Ann Micek; her daughter Valerie D'Ippolito Rodgers and her grandson, Richard William Rodgers as well as her beloved cats, Buster and Minny. A Funeral Mass will be held on April 24th at 10 am at Sacred Heart Church (1010 East Landis Avenue, Vineland, NJ), followed by a brief ceremony in the Chapel at Sacred Heart Cemetery (741 East Walnut Rd, Vineland, NJ). Starting at noon, there will be a memorial service held in the Rose Room of the Eastlyn Country Club (4049 Italia Avenue, Vineland, NJ), followed by a buffet lunch in the Patio Room. All of Esther's friends and family are welcome to come. Donations in memory of Esther can be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105