DONALD RAPPERT

Donald J. Rappert, age 78 of Menasha, passed away early Thursday, November 21, 2013 with his family by his side. He was born in Neenah on November 2, 1935 to the late Bernard and Leone (Kohanski) Rappert. Don attended St. Johns School and then Menasha High School, where he met his one true love, Marie Gloe, in the school library in 1950. He graduated in 1953, and married her on June 23, 1956. Don worked for many years at Banta Corp. as a typesetter, and eventually retired from Chesapeake as a graphic artist. He was also a retired 3rd degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed camping, playing cards, and hunting and fishing with his sons. He was a very hard worker, but occupied his free time with golfing and many years of bowling at Sabre Lanes. In his younger years, Don also tried his hand at making wine and gardening. Don is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie; his children: Donna (Terry) Link; David (Sissy Miller) Rappert; Doreen (Chris) Mellberg; and Daniel (Amy) Rappert; 10 grandchildren: Joy (Becca Carr) and Jon Link; Rebecca (Shaun) Kettner; Anna Rappert; Sarah Dilley; Jacob and Samantha Mellberg; and Lucas, Nicholas, and Jessica Rappert; as well as five great-grandchildren: Jaelynn, McKenna, Emmalynn, Charleigh Joe, and Mason. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law: Karen (Lorien) Manley, and Diane (Ron) Kelbert; and extremely good friends, John and Sue Sokolowski, who took such good care of Don and Marie. He was preceded in death by his parents: Bernard and Leone; an infant daughter, Rose Marie; a grandson, Joey Link; an Aunt Celia; Uncle Syl; and his Grandmother Mary Kohanski. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, November 25, 2013 at St. Patrick Parish, 320 Nicolet Blvd., Menasha, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial with Fr. Jim Hablewitz officiating. A visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M. until the time of service. Dons family would like to extend a warm thank you to Dr. Mielke and his assistant Maria; Dr. Josh at AMC; Dr. Duncan; and the staff and nurses of Theda Care at Home Hospice, especially Stacey, for their compassionate care during Dons illness.