Vito Puopolo

Vito Puopolo was born on April 9, 1935 in Norwood, MA, the second of five children to Antonio and Mary (Auciello) Puopolo. As a boy, Vito was recognized as prodigiously bright and creative. He played the piano and trumpet as a teenager, and after high school graduation he pursued the study of music at the New England Conservatory. During summer breaks, Vito served in the Army Reserve, playing trumpet in the Infantry Division Band. After graduating from the Conservatory, he went-on to advanced studies at Michigan State University, where he earned a Ph.D. in music education and met his wife-to-be, Nelda Rehm. Vito’s talents and creativity led him to wear a variety of professional hats throughout his career, including university professor, author of an internationally successful college textbook, writer-editor-artist for various Christian ministries, homebuilder, songwriter, band instructor, and music education consultant. One of Vito's most relished professional accomplishments was teaching music at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi, where he was employed during the late 60s as the first white instructor in the history of that college. In addition, he served for six years as Director of Music at Evangel Temple in Columbus, OH. In 2005 he retired to Los Osos, CA where he worked on various creative projects and enjoyed living near the ocean. Vito died peacefully at his home on Thursday, January 18, 2018. Until his last day, he was free and happy, having chosen a life of simplicity and self-sacrifice, so his loved ones can be fulfilled. Among those who miss him are his four children, Anthony (Vanessa) Puopolo, Michael Puopolo, Maria Puopolo (Will Slowik), and John (Meredith) Puopolo; his eight grandchildren, Nathan Puopolo, Ella Slowik, Lucas Puopolo, Lilly Puopolo, Maya Slowik, Madelyn Puopolo, Leah Slowik, and Evan Puopolo; and his two sisters, Agnes Howell and Mimi Puopolo