Carmela R. Gipprich

Carmela Rose Marie (Mel) Ruffino Gipprich passed from this earth on November 14, 2022. She was the proud mother of Stacey Smythe (Avi Kak), Lynn Gipprich, and Kristine Steen (James), proud Nonna to Owen, sister of JoAnn Casterline (Jeff), and Regina Putnam (Elmer). Mel was a unique woman with an indomitable spirit. Born in South Philadelphia, she excelled academically and socially from a young age. She sang, played classical piano, and wrote published poetry. She was an avid traveler, reader, swimmer and a lover of music, art, and giraffes. Her career began in nursing but soon turned to business and politics. She managed a home center, a profit center for Fleishman Hillard PR, and the Provost’s office at what is now Jefferson University East Falls campus where she also acquired a degree in Human Resource Management. For many years she worked for and with candidates and elected officials including Governor Edward G. Rendell. At the age of 52, she relocated to Washington, D.C. to serve as Executive Assistant and Scheduler to Congressman Joseph M. Hoeffel, 13th District, PA. From 2006 – 2012 she served as Administrative Director, Chief of Staff, and Special Advisor to three Chief Administrative Officers of the United States House of Representatives. After her retirement, she returned to Philadelphia where she consulted to a multitude of agencies and organizations. She lectured at local universities, tutored in inner city schools, and contributed and advocated for non-profits including Women Against Abuse, Career Wardrobe, Covenant House, and Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission. Throughout much of her life she cared for her ill mother while raising her daughters to be self-sufficient and independent. She was a good friend to all who knew her. A memorial service will be held in December, more details will follow. Contributions in her name should be made to her favorite charities, including Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission in Philadelphia.