Lt. Col. John Michael Rapp

Lt. Col. John Michael Rapp, fondly known as “Mike”, returned to our Lord in Heaven on July 12, 2022 at the age of 82 while cruising with his beloved wife. He was born on September 27, 1939 in Roanoke, Virginia to Raymond and Mary Rapp. He was a graduate of Jefferson High School and earned a Bachelors Degree from American University in 1977. He also graduated from The Command General Staff College in 1981. Mike honorably served our country in the U.S. Army and retired as a LT. Colonel after 33 years of dedicated service. During his career he was stationed in many countries around the world. Throughout his commission he was awarded a total of 68 decorations, to include The Legion of Merit, The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, 20 Air Medals and 30 Army Commendation medals. Others knew Mike through his tenure as the Director of Transportation for Galena Park ISD. He took great pride in providing safe transportation for children of the district. Mike’s love for sports, especially football and baseball, developed at a young age. He started as an offensive and defensive end all four years of high school. His high school team won the State Championship two years in a row. Mike was a true outdoorsman. He especially enjoyed camping, fishing, boating, hunting and of course, traveling. Mike enjoyed playing cards and especially teaching his grandkids how to play War and Gin Rummy. In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by all of his siblings, Sheldon Rapp, Colleen Hagey, Peggy Rapp and Walter Rapp. Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 46 years, Margaret Carol Rapp; sons, Michael David Rapp, Scott Anthony Rapp, and John Michael Rapp, Jr and wife, Stephanie, two nieces, two nephews and many cousins. Mike was the proud Grandpa “Papa” to Mandy and husband, Johannes Schneider, Brandon, Jessica, Ella Rae, Kylee, Justin, Makenize and Sadie; and Great Grandpa to Ashley and Jamie. Mike is also survived by special family friend, Candy Countryman and her children, Ryan, Raelyn and Rylee. In true “Rapp” fashion he fought a courageous battle with health issues. This strong, dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend will truly be missed. Interment, with full military honors, will take place at Arlington National Cemetery later this year.

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Lt. Col. John Michael Rapp

September 27, 1939 - July 12, 2022