Nicholas Rico Zerpa, age 39 of Joplin, Missouri passed away on September 28, 2018. Nicholas was born on February 17, 1979 in the city of Los Angeles, California to his mother, Catherine Marie Porterfield and his belated father, Tomas E. Zerpa.

Nicholas was preceded in death by his grandparents James (Bertha) Staton; Uncle, Terry Staton; and Aunt, Emma Wiley.
After graduating from school, Nicholas and his beloved brother, Desi became little entrepreneurs at heart. They had a passion for helping people over the years. They developed an unbreakable bond as brothers and business partners.

Nicholas enjoyed the gift of life, and that would include his mother’s cooking! He knew just how to touch his mother’s heart with laughter. He and his stepfather, Robert shared a special bond. He affectionately called him, “Pops”! During his travels, he found his soul mate, Marsha. “It was love at first sight”! Nicholas and Marsha married and formed a happy bond of union. Nicholas really enjoyed visiting and spending time with his aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Nicholas was baptized March 12, 2017 as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His greatest joy was striving o live up to his dedication to Jehovah God. He was thrilled to be addressed as Brother Zerpa! Nicholas looked forwarded to living on a paradise earth with his family, that’s just around the corner.

He leaves behind his dearly beloved wife, Marsha; his mother, Catherine Porterfield; and stepfather, Robert Porterfield; his brother, Desi Zerpa, and nephew, Desi Zerpa, Jr. Aunts and Uncles: John (Cecia) Staton; James (Gail) Staton; Mary (Keith) Burleigh; Sherry (Lester) Washington; Constance Leon, and Peggy Williams. Cousins: Carmella McDowell; Raphael Staton; Dominique Staton; Rachelle Plunkett; Jade Burleigh; Patrice Infante; Samuel Leon; Christopher Williams, and Jerimiah Williams.

A memorial visitation will be held 5-6:00 p.m. Wednesday at Mason-Woodard Mortuary. The Memorial service will be held 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Kingdom Hall East.
Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

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