Verna Marie Zapp

Verna M. Zapp, age 69, passed away Friday, February 9, 2024, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. She was born November 12, 1954, to Arthur and Helen Yetto, in Cohoes, New York. She had a wealth of stories about growing up on Front Street along the banks of the Mohawk River. She was a graduate of Cohoes High School, Class of 1972. Stated in Verna Zapp’s Yearbook is the quote, “Laughter is not at all a bad beginning for a friendship, and it is far the best ending for one.” She was a great listener and helped family and friends with life long advice. Numerous letters from women now adults wrote of how she helped them get through their teenage years by sharing personal accounts of those days.  

She married the love of her life, Paul E. Zapp on May 19, 1979, in Troy, New York. Their marriage produced two children she was exceptionally proud of (Ian and Erika). She enjoyed talking and sharing photos about their many travels together, particularly, their trips to Bermuda. Verna was the Manager of Senior Care at CDPHP (health insurance company) in Albany, NY; Regional Manager of Lia Sophia Jewelry; and an entrepreneur with Miche Handbags and Create-A-Book. She was the owner of one of the first Create-a-Book franchises. She helped originate the Silver Sneakers Program in Albany, NY and served on the Board of Miss Shen Softball in Clifton Park, NY for several years. Verna enjoyed watching old westerns, Maine Cabin Masters, Young Sheldon and the Equalizer series on TV, playing the Lottery and going to Casinos. Verna loved music, particularly, the special playlists her husband made for her. She dearly loved playing with her granddaughter and watching her grandsons play baseball. Verna was very proud of her Girl Scout achievements. She was a member of the Catholic Church and donated her time at the Ronald McDonald House. She donated regularly to charitable organizations such as Save the Children.

Thank you to all friends and family, and the Cohoes Class of 1972.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Helen Yetto.

Verna is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Paul Zapp of Rio Rancho, NM; son and daughter-in-law, Ian Zapp and Jennifer Savino of Saratoga Springs, NY; daughter and son-in-law, Erika and Martin Martinez of Rio Rancho, NM; nephew and wife, Dylan and Lisa Hood of Stillwater, NY; sister, Rachel Yetto of Stillwater, NY; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Dale Davenport of Waterford, NY; brother and sister-in-law, William and Merlyn Yetto of Columbia, SC; grandchildren, Liam Martinez, Lucas Martinez, London Martinez; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; many other relatives and friends.

Services will begin with Recitation of the Rosary, Friday, March 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1502 Sara Rd, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Mass will follow at 10:30 AM. Services will be held this summer in Saratoga, New York.

This obituary will be updated with those service dates and times once the arrangements are made.