Alice "Rena" (Oliaro) Chaper

Alice “Rena” (Oliaro) Chaper, 93, lifelong resident of Plainville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 70 years, Walter Chaper, who predeceased her in 2020.

Rena, as she was affectionately known, was born on July 5, 1932, in Bristol, CT daughter to the late Chester and Maria (Strambello) Oliaro. She met the love of her life, Walter, and together they created a beautiful home in Plainville filled with laughter, warmth, and cherished memories. As a dedicated stay-at-home mother, Rena played a pivotal role in raising their daughters, nurturing their dreams, and instilling in them the values of compassion, kindness, and resilience. Her daughters blessed her with many grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

A devout Catholic and lifelong member of Our Lady of Mercy Church, Rena lived her life immersed in her faith. She cherished her connection with God, praying daily and wearing her crosses as a testament to her beliefs.

Alongside her husband, Rena shared a passion for antiquing and the same adoration for their pet Pomeranian, Sammy, who filled their days with laughter and excitement, always keeping them on their toes. They also enjoyed many special moments together in Ogunquit and their frequent meet ups with their friends at the mall. Rena was a true fashionista at heart, who embraced every opportunity to express herself through her signature style. Her love for shopping and visits to craft fairs showcased her eye for beauty and her enthusiasm for all things artistic. Friends and family fondly remember her spirited personality and her ability to light up a room with her presence.

As we remember Rena, let us carry forward her passion for life, her flair for fashion, and her love for her family. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

Rena is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Deanna Tarchini and Douglas Schaaf, Roxane and Kris Parsons, and Joanne and Gary Oakes; her adored grandchildren, Michael Ascensio, Amy Parsons/Maldonado, Roy Parsons and his wife, Jen, Sara Oakes, and Tyler Oakes; seven great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. In addition to her parents and her husband, Rena was predeceased by her brother, Bruno Oliaro and her grandson, Daniel Tarchini.

In lieu of flowers, Rena may be remembered with contributions to the Plainville Food Pantry, PO Box 233, Plainville, CT 06062.

A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Rena’s life will be held on Friday, January 23 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 94 Broad Street, Plainville. Burial will follow at Saint Joseph Cemetery. Family and friends may gather before the Mass on Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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