Gerald E. Rapp 10/19/2021

 

 

Gerald Elwood Rapp, a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, returned to our Father in Heaven at the age of 73 on November 15, 2021.  He was known by his family and friends as Jerry.  He was born in Elgin, Illinois on April 3, 1948 to Charles "Charlie" Elwood Rapp, Jr. and Louise "Lou" (Grimes) Rapp.  He was a man who showed family and friends by his actions that love, laughter and forgiveness were three (3) of the most important qualities a person could possess.

He graduated from Aurora West High School in 1967.  Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Air Force and served his country in Vietnam and later was stationed at other bases across the world for 10 years.  Jerry loved his country.

His career was in telecommunications thanks to his training in the military.  His work took him all over the U.S. including California, Missouri, Iowa and Arkansas, to name a few.  In his work he served many people who say he is most remembered by his jovial smile, outgoing personality and his ability to make people laugh.

Even though Jerry was taken far too soon, he taught those around him how to love unconditionally, forgiveness, loyalty, the importance of laughter in your life and to help others in need.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife Lorie Rapp; Daughter, Jennifer (Brian) Hall; Stepson, Jeff (Jan) Heidemann; Stepdaughters, Jennifer (Bruce) Gronemeyer & April (Tom) Arns; Grandsons, Randall Glazier & Matthew Hall; Step Granchildren, Kailey Heidemann, Kristian Heidemann, Noah (Amy) Gronemeyer, Beth Ladage, Zoey (Dan) Burkett, Mallorie (Jared) Danner; Jonah Gronemeyer; Zachary Trafelet (Jassie Gauthier) & Isabella (Noah) Helmuth; Step Great Granddaughters, Elorie Ladage & Hadleigh Ladage; Step Great Grandson, Holden Helmuth; Brother, David (Sheila) Rapp; Nephew, Robbie Rapp; Niece, Dawn (Nick) Lenhardt.

He also leaves behind many other family members including great nephews and cousins plus friends who will sadly miss his happy smiling face.  Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Charles "Charlie"; his mother, Louise "Lou"; a daughter, Kathryn "Katie"; and a nephew, David Lee Rapp, Jr.

Please join us as we celebrate Jerry's life Sunday, January 16, 2022 from 2pm - 4pm at Whiskey Road Saloon.  Bring memories and pictures to share.

Also in July 2022, the family will be celebrating Jerry's life in Illinois.