Richard Z. Rupert, 91, of Derry, passed away July 26, 2024, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 2, 1933, in Derry, a son of the late Ivan R. and Rachel (Zundel) Rupert and was actually born and died in the same house that has been in his family for over 100 years. Rich was a member of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latrobe. He was a U.S. Army veteran during the Korean conflict, having served as a corporal from March 17, 1953, to Jan. 4, 1955. Rich retired from Derry Westinghouse and was a life member of the Derry VFD after joining in Oct. 1952 and served as assistant chief from 1965 to Dec. 1974. He was active in answering the alarm for 53 years before serving as the department chaplain. Rich was a PA state fire instructor teaching firefighters for several decades. He was chair of the planning committee for Westmoreland County Community training center, and was also a member of the Westmoreland Archaeological Society Chapter #23. Rich is survived by his two sons, Richard M. (Lynne) of St. Mary's, GA, and Steven P. Rupert of Houston, TX; two daughters; Laura L. "Lori" Gunsallus (Jack) of Derry and Nancy A. Fiorina (John) of Latrobe; eight grandchildren; Eric Rupert (Angie), Jason Rupert, Kasey Davidson (Michael), Ivan Rupert (Heather), Laura Evard (Andrew), Richard Kisic (Rachel), Kirstie Dolan (Troy) and Shayna Fiorina and fiance Tyler Walburn; eleven great-grandchildren; Nicholas Patrick and Abigail Erica Rupert, Brandon Hunter, Nathan Dawson and Lindsey Ashlynne Orum, Ashton Charlotte and Harper James Davidson, Logan Michael Kisic, Lydia Jo Dolan, Elijah Wayne and Noah Andrew Evard; a brother; Philip R. Rupert (Flo) of Derry, and sister-in-law; Eleanor Rupert and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Patricia L. (Clawson) Rupert, a brother, David I. Rupert and a sister, Peggy McChesney. All services and interment are private for the family. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Derry VFD, 116 E. Second Ave Derry PA 15627. McCabe Funeral Home, 300 W. Third Ave., Derry. online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomes.com To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.