Paul Pierpaoli
How do you know Paul? Please share your stories and photos, and help spread the word about this page!
Paul G. Pierpaoli died at his home in Hilton Head, SC on December 17, 2020 after a long and valiant battle with Parkinson's disease. Devoted to his profession for over 60 years, he served as a professor and director of pharmacy at numerous institutions, including UCONN Health Center, VCU Medical Center, and Rush University Medical Center, Chicago. He was a prolific author, served as a board member and national president of ASHP, received the Whitney Award, his profession's highest honor, and trained well over 100 residents. As well, he was the recipient of distinguished alumnus awards by both his alma maters, The University of Rhode Island and The University of Michigan.
Paul was also an accomplished chef, a lover all things Italian, an excellent sculptor, and a cognoscente of jazz music. A charitable and caring friend to all, in retirement he volunteered in the Second Helpings and Memory Matters organizations.
Born the son of Olga (Rocchetti) Pierpaoli and Gaspare Pierpaoli, poor immigrants from Italy, he took great pride in his cultural heritage and was entirely a self-made man. He was the first in his family to complete high school, college, and graduate school. He spoke often and passionately about the importance of human dignity and believed that all human labor, no matter the level, was innately noble.
In addition to his many friends, colleagues, nieces and nephews, he leaves behind his devoted wife of 59 years, Arlene (Ottiano) Pierpaoli, his two sons Paul and Steven, of Hilton Head, SC and Chicago, respectively, and four grandchildren whom he treasured: Andrew, Olivia, Ryan, and Matthew. He also leaves behind dear in-laws George and Beverly Ottiano of San Diego, CA. He was predeceased by his two siblings, Primo J. Pierpaoli and Elsa Sepe.
Because of the Covid disaster, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. His family wishes to gratefully recognize the love and patience of his long-term caregivers, Mary Jo Bennett and Luvenia Gardner.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Volunteers in Medicine, 15 Northridge Dr., Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 or vimclinic.org. www.keithfuneral.com.