Lillian Catherine Riccelli

Lillian Catherine Riccelli was born June 8, 1934, in Des Moines to Harold and Lillian (Boreum) Hunt. She passed away at her home on November 4, 2025, at the age of 91.

Lillian grew up on Des Moines’ Southside and graduated from Lincoln High School. She married Hubert Larpenter and from that union, two sons were born, Rick and Rodney. In 1964, she married Peter Riccelli and lovingly welcomed his three children, Becky, Sandy and Peter Jr. into her life. Together, Peter and Lillian had two sons, Terry and Frank. They built a beautiful life together with their blended family. Lillian was member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, Southern Hills Congregation.

Lillian and her husband Pete opened Riccelli’s restaurant in 1964, a staple on Des Moines the Southside. The restaurant was her passion and she continued working until it closed in 2020.

Lillian is survived by her children, Terry Riccelli, Frank Riccelli, Becky (Jim) Canterbury and Sandy (Tom) Meeks; daughters-in-law, Glori Larpenter and Barb Larpenter; grandchildren, Nicole, Christine, Rachelle, Aaron, Jesse, JoAnn, Taylor, Tanner, Teri, Renae, Stephanie, Julie, Kenny and Mike; many great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; six sisters; two brothers; sons, Rick and Rodney Larpenter, step-son, Peter Riccelli Jr.; grandson, Charlie Riccelli; and her husband of 45 years, Peter Riccelli.

The family will greet friends on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 13th at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Lillian will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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