Obituary of Douglas Newton Rorapaugh

Douglas Newton Rorapaugh

Douglas N. Rorapaugh, age 71, of Philadelphia, PA and most recently Berlin, NJ, died Sunday

evening November 9, 2025 suddenly and violently as a consequence of a car crash caused by the

actions of a reckless and grossly negligent driver. Doug was born to the late Richard Donald

Rorapaugh, Sr. and Anne Newton Rorapaugh on July 19, 1954 in Baltimore, MD. He was raised

in Columbus (Upper Arlington), OH and lived most of his adult life in New York, NY, Boston,

MA and Philadelphia, PA. A lifelong learner, active listener, conversationalist, counselor and

friend, Doug was a graduate of Upper Arlington, HS (1972), The Ohio State University (BA

Psychology 1989), Episcopal Divinity School (M. Div.1995), and Neumann University (MS

Pastoral Care and Counseling 2014). Prior to completing his collegiate and post-graduate

degrees, Doug briefly attended Butler University before chasing and living his dream of being a

performing artist on stage under the bright lights of Broadway. After many years of living the

roller coaster life in the Big Apple, he settled into a life of serving others. In addition to his work

with the church, Doug found joy and purpose in guiding others to find their best self as a life

coach and counselor with Landmark Worldwide and as a ride share driver, which coincidently,

gave him the opportunity further learn, listen, share, counsel and befriend others. Doug loved

travel, the performing arts, show tunes and classical music. He was always available to aide a

friend and never met a stranger. Also preceded in death by his older brother R. Donald

Rorapaugh, Jr., Doug leaves behind his younger brother M. Brooks Rorapaugh (Kathleen) of

Medina, OH and sister Anne W. Rorapaugh of Lewis Center, OH. as well as sister-in-law Penny

Rorapaugh of Powell, OH; nieces and nephews Cara, Troy (Liz), Kristin (Matthew Sherepita).

Abigail (Michael) Hammond, Michael (Amelia), Mason (Jenna), grandnieces Olivia and Eloise

and countless friends that he deeply cared for and who cared for him. A memorial service and

celebration of life ceremonies were held in his honor on December 28, 2025 and January 2, 2026

respectively. The family wishes to especially thank Marianne Leone, Helene Leone, Danny

Pauletti and Susan Kulakowski for their care and assistance during this challenging time as well

as the New Jersey State Police and all first responders and health care workers who cared for

Doug following this tragedy. A private family ceremony in Ohio will be held at a later date.

Funeral arrangements provided by Falco, Caruso and Leonard Funeral Home

(www.carusocare.com) and friends are encouraged to express condolences online.