Grace Rapp

Grace Rapp passed away on March 23 of Advanced Alzheimer’s. She was 95 years old. She is survived by her husband Ray, their 6 children, Ray, Ann, Rose, June, Lance and Carrie; seven grandchildren, Richard, Gary, Randy, Caroline, Catherine, Claire and Courtney; four great-grandchildren, Ava, Anson, Brandon and Patrick.

Grace was born on February 25, 1926, in Harlan, Iowa, to Ted and Clara Stessman (deceased). She was the eldest of 5 children - Jean (deceased), Ted (deceased), Betty and Clarence.

After graduating high school in Harlan, she was recruited to go to Washington D.C. to be a secretary for the FBI. This was during WWII and many young women from all over the country went to Washington to work and she enjoyed many friendships. It was also at this time that she met Ray Rapp. They were married on Feb. 28, 1946, and were married for 75 years.

In 1960 the family moved to Dallas, Texas, where they have lived ever since. Her life was very full as a wife, mother and homemaker.

Grace's religious life was of great importance to her. She attended mass devotedly and, when in later years was unable to leave home, she watched Mass daily on television. She was a member of Catholic Daughters of America and was their local Regent at one time. She was a parishioner of St Monica for over 60 years and enjoyed being a lector at Sunday Masses. She was a member of a prayer group at St. Rita's Catholic Church, where she made deep and lasting friendships. She traveled twice to Medjugorje, where Mother Mary was reported to appear to 4 children there.

She loved square dancing and playing games with friends. She and Ray were members of the fun and lively Circle I square dancing club. She belonged to a ladies bridge club who played fortnightly for 40 years. She and Ray were in couples bridge clubs and games clubs for many years as well.

She enjoyed keeping in touch with her Midwestern family and attended biannual reunions. She never lost her love for her home state of Iowa and would love to reminisce about the years spent growing up in Shelby County, Iowa, “some of the richest farmland in America”.

She always contributed to charities and was particularly interested in giving to Native Americans, whom she felt had been so badly mistreated.

Her late years were quiet ones at home. To the last, her love of music and singing were a great comfort and joy.

The Jewish people say that the spirit lives on after death as long as there is someone left to remember. Grace touched many lives and will long be remembered. She quietly and sweetly slipped into heaven.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to St Monica Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this time of remembrance.