Giovanni "Gio" Emil Zappitelli

In loving memory of Giovanni “Gio” Emil Zappitelli, a tender soul whose joyful spirit touched the hearts of all who knew him. Giovanni, affectionately known as Gio, was born on August 14, 2019, and departed to be with the Lord and Savior on June 15, 2024.

From the moment he entered this world, Gio brought immense happiness to his family and friends. He had an infectious personality and his loving and playful nature shined through to everyone he met. He shared a special, inseparable bond with his beautiful twin sisters and was able to make them laugh like no-one else could.

Gio had such special relationships with both his mommy and daddy. He and his mommy were always together, exploring new places and going on adventures to his local favorites like Bush and Vine or the Schiele Museum. Gio approached all of their adventures with wide-eyed wonder. His mommy’s love for music shined through in his life, as he adored timeless classics from the day he was born. Gio was a spitting image of his daddy, both looks and personality. The two of them had their own special language that only they could understand. Gio was following in his daddy’s footsteps as a left-handed golfer, loved taking rides with his daddy in his fast new car, and most of all, he adored going to Zapps Wholesale, his daddy’s business, where he was always the Employee of the Month and where he believed he would be the CEO one day.

From the beginning of his life, Gio reveled in the beauty of nature, whether visiting the beach, hiking by a creek, or searching for treasures in his own backyard, he was always dreaming up a new adventure. He also was a Hot Wheels enthusiast and was beginning his love for Classic cars.

Though his time with us was far too short, Giovanni Emil Zappitelli will live on through the memories he created and the love he shared with his family. Gio was recently dedicated to the Lord and was a very proud member of City Church, where he touched many lives.

Gio leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever be treasured by his parents, Anthony and Jenifer Zappitelli; his cherished twin sisters, Clara and Leona; his grandparents, John and Debby Stitt and Gary and Julie Pocatko; many aunts, uncles and cousins as well as a large extended family that deeply adored him.

Family and friends are invited to honor Gio’s life on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at City Church in Gastonia (3100 City Church St. Gastonia, NC 28056) with a Celebration of Life to follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Dickie Spargo officiating. Entombment will follow at Evergreen “A Quiet Place” Cemetery in Belmont (1462 Armstrong Ford Rd, Belmont, NC 28012).

In his honor, let us remember Giovanni as the bright light who brought smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts. May his spirit live on in the memories of those who were blessed to know and love him.

Rest peacefully, dear Giovanni, in the eternal embrace of heaven. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished sweet boy.

Memorials may be made in Gio's honor to City Church, 3100 City Church Drive, Gastonia, NC 28056.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family. 

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com