John Tapparo

Johnnie Tapparo, 83 passed away on March 9, 2019. Born on September 7, 1935 at the Lowry Bombing Range. He grew up in Kiowa Colorado and graduated from Kiowa Highschool in 1953. After graduation, he went to work for Elbert County. In 1954, he left Kiowa to work in the oil fields for 2 years. He then returned to work for Elbert County. In 1957, he worked construction for Yale Chapin. A year later, he went to work for Gates Rubber Company and retired after 32 years in 1991. Johnnie couldn't stay retired for too long. He drove a school bus for Mapleton School District for 8 years. In 1995 and 1996 he showed off his school bus driving skills at the Adams County School District #1 Bus Rodeo and won 1^st place both years. In 2002, Johnnie finally retired to the golf course.

Johnnie married Clara Reese, March 15, 1959. They had two children, Christine and Tim. Family was always important to Johnnie. He always made sure he attended his kids sporting events and school activities and later in life tried to do the same with his grandchildren. He and his family took many road trips with plenty of adventures. They saw many parts of the U.S. through the windshield of a 1967 Belair station wagon and then upgraded to a pickup truck and camper. Johnnie was very active with youth sports, coaching baseball and basketball when his children were young. Then after his children left the nest, he and Clara became involved in square dancing. He was the program chairman when the national square dance convention was held in Denver. John loved going fishing with his son and grandson. In Johnnies later years, he took up the game of golf and enjoyed many outings with friends, brothers, nephews, and daughter. He always made sure a golf course was near by when planning vacations. Johnnie had quite the sense of humor. People never knew if he was joking or serious. Johnnie was blessed with three grandchildren, Andrew, Ashley and his angel Abigail. He is also blessed with many nieces, nephews, good friends and acquaintances.

Johnnie is survived by his loving wife Clara, children Christine, Tim and daughter-in-law Karen, and grandchildren Andrew and Ashley.

There will be a Visitation on Friday, March 15th from 5PM to 8PM at the Horan & McConaty Family Chapel in Thornton, CO at 9998 Grant Street. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 16th at 10AM at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Northglenn, CO at 10675 Washington Street. John will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery following the service.

Please join the family back at the church for a reception following the burial.

Please share memories of John and condolences with his family in the guestbook below.