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Robert Rappold Obituary
He joined the US Air Force in 1962 and was a missile launch officer, attended CU Boulder for his M.S., served at The Pentagon, graduated from Texas A&M University with his Ph.D. in Operations Research, and became a tenured Professor of Mathematics at the US Air Force Academy. Upon his military retirement as a Lt Col, he worked in the aerospace industry for 15 years. After his second retirement, he returned to academia for 13 years, teaching in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at UCCS. He often commented how blessed he felt to have enjoyed all three of his professional careers. In his genuine retirement he liked volunteering, hiking and biking in the mountains, and reading extensively.
Bob was an active member of Holy Apostles Catholic Church for over 30 years, participating in youth, engaged, married, and peace and justice ministries.
Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years, Gayle, sons Eric (Ana), Scott (Bill), Kyle, Troy, and daughter Vicky (Bruno). He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Emmie and Quint Mediate, Keziah Arnold, and Mila, Elena, and Martina Rappold.
A viewing will take place at 10 am and Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am on Fri, Feb 28 at Holy Apostles Catholic Church. A luncheon will follow in the Parish Hall. Interment will be Sat, Mar 1 at 10:30 am at Evergreen Cemetery, Colorado Springs.
If desired, donations in his honor may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, The US Olympic Committee, or Holy Apostles Catholic Church Youth Program.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rappold
Gayle Rappold
February 21, 2019
To those of you who posted remarks, I have just re-read them and they are as meaningful today as they were 5 years ago, so, again, thank you! The fact that you come from different times and circumstances of Bobby's life is a testament to who he always was and how he lived his life. You are included in my treasure of great memories over the 53 years he and I had together. Bless you for your kindness and thoughtfulness to me and my family!
March 6, 2014
To family, friends and colleagues of mine and Bobby's: Thank you for such heartfelt comments. The outpouring of support for me and our family has touched us and mattered a great deal in this journey. You all have honored the husband, father and friend that he was and it makes his absence from our lives easier. Thank you,Gayle
Dr. David Schmidt
March 5, 2014
Dear Rappold family, I had the pleasure of working with Bob for several years, as we launched the new Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at UCCS. He was a great guy, and a wonderful colleague.
March 2, 2014
Dear Rappold Family, Please know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers as we learned of Bob's illness and passing to the Communion of the Saints. Love from the Partridge Family (Rosemary, Sam, Katharine, Michelle, and Carmen)
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March 1, 2014
Sorry we could not be there to support the family, but do know that our thoughts & love are with all of you. Bob was a "special" man who was loved by many. Barbara, Joel, Emma, Ryan & Danielle.
February 28, 2014
Dear Rappold Family,
I came to know Mr. Rappold through Holy Apostles Youth Group and Kyle, my high school classmate. Although my contact with him would be brief each time I came in to town to visit my family, he always greeted me with a big smile and a firm handshake. I always felt that he was genuinely interested in what was going in my life as a teen and now as an adult. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss. Jim Pierson
carl boos
February 28, 2014
I worked with Bob at Titan in the 80's. My deepest condolences. He was a great guy.
Carl Boos
Paul Gravelle
February 27, 2014
Bob was a great guy and always friendly. While he will be greatly missed, it is with great Joy that we know he is home.
Patty Evans
February 27, 2014
I worked with Bob at UCCS. What a wonderful guy. I'm distressed to hear of his passing and will miss him.
Sam Gioia
February 27, 2014
Bob never had a harsh word for anyone, he personified what it means to live a Christan life, he will be sorely missed and never forgotten.
Kristie Ewig
February 27, 2014
I was so sorry to hear of your loss! You are such a special person, Gayle, and I know you will find strength in your legion of good friends, as well as in the love you share as a family. You have always been so supportive and positive towards everyone lucky enough to have been in your radius. At AAHS you brightened the lives of our entire faculty and staff! You will be in our thoughts and prayers as you face the void left by Bob's passing. May the love from all of us bring strength and comfort to you and your family.
James Torley
February 27, 2014
Bob was a true mentor to me in our overlapping teaching careers at UCCS. He was the very first visitor I had after my heart surgery and I greatly appreciated his friendship and support then and over the many years I was privileged to know him.
Mary Jo Stouffer
February 27, 2014
oh Gayle. . .and family. My heart and prayers are with you. With love
Max Stucky
February 27, 2014
Gayle and Family...Thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
February 27, 2014
To the Rappold Family: May you find peace and comfort within each other in the loss of your husband, father, and grandfather. Take care of each other. Janet Gerard (Jim and Geri Pierson's daughter)
Sam Edwards
February 27, 2014
Bob always brought a big smile and encouraging words to the Marian House. He volunteered with us for many years. His smile and service will be missed, but his memories live on. Peace to his lovely family.
Gayle White
February 27, 2014
Sharon and I were deeply sadden by Bob's passing. He and I worked together. He was true professional in the aerospace industry: a man of integrity, honesty, faith and skill. We were pleased to call Gayle and Bob friends.
Anne (Runyan) Krajcovic
February 27, 2014
Dear Gayle, Friends at Academy 20 are sorry to hear. We're thinking of you and the kids and hoping the good memories will help you all through this time.
Jack Sherman
February 27, 2014
If there is a handball court in heaven, Bob, get us a reservation. I will be there. Jack
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