News Summary
The Narragansett community is in mourning as three beloved residents, Christopher DiPanni, Margaret Rysk, and Joyce Lonati, have recently passed away. Each individual made significant contributions to their families and the local culture. Tributes are pouring in as family and friends remember their joy, warmth, and legacies. The community is coming together to honor these remarkable lives, reflecting on the impact they had on those around them.
Narragansett, RI – The local community is in mourning following the recent deaths of three cherished residents: Christopher DiPanni, Margaret “Peg” Rysk, and Joyce Lonati. Each of these individuals left a lasting impact on the lives of those who knew them, and their legacies will be remembered fondly.
Christopher DiPanni, aged 83, passed away peacefully at his home on August 29, 2025. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Christopher and Anna (Pinto) DiPanni. Christopher was well-known in the community as the owner of PAMCO Jewelry Company along with several other local businesses before retiring. His legacy continues through his two sons, Richard N. DiPanni and William P. DiPanni, both residing in Cranston. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Kade Nicholas Wilson and Dante Diamante, along with his partner Carol Casella and step-daughter Rayna Bouchard, and her husband Matthew. Christopher was also a grandfather to the late Nickolas DiPanni. His funeral and burial will be private, and condolences can be expressed online.
Margaret “Peg” Rysk, aged 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 17, 2025. She was a loving wife to Peter Paul Rysk for over 70 years. Margaret was born to the late Thomas and Margaret (Hesketh) Ryan and had two older brothers who predeceased her. She graduated from St. Xavier’s Academy and earned a degree in art education from Rhode Island College (RIC). While working full-time, she also pursued and obtained a master’s degree in art education with a minor in art history from Assumption College. Margaret loved the ocean, spending summers at Oakland Beach and at a beach house in Narragansett. A committed member of her community, she volunteered extensively, particularly at St. Catherine’s Church. Margaret is survived by four daughters, nine grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Her funeral mass is scheduled for February 24, 2025, at Christ the King Church in Kingston, RI.
Joyce Lonati, aged 91, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on May 25, 2025. She was the devoted wife of the late John Lonati Jr., having been married for 58 years. Joyce was born in Teaneck, New Jersey, to the late Ambrose Kingsland and Joyce Isabel (Baker) Merrill. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Vermont. Joyce and John cherished over 30 years of vacations in Aruba, creating lasting memories with loved ones. They relocated to Narragansett in 1996, where they enjoyed the scenic waterfront and sunsets. Joyce was passionate about travel and sports, including golf and tennis, and once celebrated achieving a hole-in-one. She is survived by her children: Karen, Jill, Jeanne, and Stephen, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those wishing to honor Joyce’s memory can make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.
The passing of Christopher DiPanni, Margaret Rysk, and Joyce Lonati has left a significant void in the Narragansett community. Their contributions to the local culture, dedication to family, and commitment to their passions define the legacies they leave behind. As friends, family, and community members come together to celebrate their lives and achievements, they will be remembered for the joy and warmth they brought to those around them.
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Additional Resources
- Obituary: Margaret Rysk
- Wikipedia: Narragansett, Rhode Island
- Obituary: Joyce Lonati
- Google Search: Christopher DiPanni
- Obituary: Dolores Dupre
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Narragansett
- Obituary: Brian Arnold
- Google News: Narragansett community
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