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Michael William Rapp

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Swarthmore College

Michael Rapp Obituary

Name: Celebration of Life for Michael William Rapp
Start: 2020-02-01T19:00:00.000Z
Location: Bond Memorial Hall, Swarthmore College

Michael William Rapp, son of Michael E. and Hazel C. Rapp, died on January 20, 2020 after a brief battle with cancer. He was 71. A graduate of Swarthmore High School, Michael pursued adventures far and wild before settling in closer to home. He worked at Swarthmore College as a computer hardware technician for 30 years until his retirement in 2019. A life-long explorer with eclectic interests, from Bob Dylan to the Grateful Dead, bottle caps to bottled beer, and Buckminster Fuller to Homer Simpson, his kind and gentle spirit will be missed by all who loved him, and a comfort to all who remember him. He is survived by his brothers Stephen (Chestertown, MD), Peter (Baltimore, MD), and Gregory (Richmond, VA), and his loving nieces Ella and Mae Rapp (Brooklyn, NY). An informal, unscripted gathering for remembrance is scheduled for Saturday, 2/1/2020 at 2:00 PM, Bond Memorial Hall, Swarthmore College. In lieu of flowers, consider donations to the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Times from Jan. 24 to Jan. 26, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Rapp

Sponsored by DelcoTimes.com.

23 Entries

Kathy (Mascher) Patchen

June 22, 2021

Michael and I had so many adventures over the seven years we were close. He was a mentor in many respects. I will always love him.

Kathy Mascher

March 23, 2020

I spent many days and nights, adventures and concerts, meals and trips with Michael. Always in my .

Anna Headley

February 7, 2020

Always enjoyed chatting with Mike as a student and later staff member at Swarthmore. He was very helpful, friendly, and kind. Condolences to Mike's family.

Hazel and her four boys

February 5, 2020

Michael with Dad, Hazel, Cathy and Clyde

February 5, 2020

Michael and Stephen

February 5, 2020

Michael and Linda

Gregory Rappaport

February 5, 2020

Michael was truly a special person in this world that touched the lives of so many people in very different ways and left an indelible tattoo that will "not fade away".
I'm proud to have called him my brother, although he was taken far too early. I just hope he's enjoying a tall cold one right now.

Jane F. James

January 28, 2020

Some of my fondest memories of working in ITS at Swarthmore College were working with Mike and, before his tenure there, his mother Hazel. Mike was a sweetheart and a great person to work with. I will truly miss him!

Patti Slaughter

January 28, 2020

Michael was a lovely, kind and gentle person of great wit. He will be sadly missed.

Cathy Cinquina

January 28, 2020

Working with Michael for 28 years has been a pleasure. He was always willing and able to help any time I called him with questions or problems. He was also a friend, who I will miss dearly. My deepest condolences to his family, and all those who loved him, especially Linda.

Stacey H.

January 28, 2020

My world was bettered having Michael as a coworker. He was always smiling and exuded kindness. I would call him when something in the office wasn't working correctly, the moment he walked in the room, without even touching the machine, it would start working, he would look at me askance and we would laugh. He was 'The machine whisperer' or maybe even magic. I hope that he knew how much he was loved here at Swarthmore. Go placidly, Michael.

January 28, 2020

So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I knew him from working at the college. He had a kind spirit and a great sense of humor. Rest in peace Michael!
C. Moir

Claire Sawyers

January 28, 2020

The staff of the Scott Arboretum is deeply honored that Michael's love of this landscape and interest in plants is remembered at this time. Various staff members fondly recalled interactions with Michael about plants as well as patient, gentle assistance from him regarding our computer issues upon learning of his passing. Our condolences to his family and friends. Claire Sawyers, Director, The Scott Arboretum

Cathy Wareham

January 27, 2020

I met Michael after we moved into our house down the street from him and his mom, Helen. He was one of the sweetest people I've ever met. I would attend his service, but we've moved to South Carolina. I'm sure there will be many people there sharing fond memories.

Meghan Sutherland

January 27, 2020

I am so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. He was one of my father's best friends from high school and was so kind to me after Doug's death.

-Meghan Sutherland

Anita Dell"Orefice Leyrer

January 27, 2020

so sorry for your loss, mike was a great guy will be missed by all

Pat Krop

January 27, 2020

It's been a long time since I worked at Swarthmore, but I clearly remember Michael. He was a lovely person. I'm so sorry to hear he has passed.

Anthony Tomeo

January 26, 2020

To the Rapp Family my sincere condolences and from all your friends who shared good times with you at Happy Hour with your good friend Joanne behind the bar.May you enjoy your eternal retirement!

Gail Redden

January 26, 2020

I just posted and failed to sign my post. Again, I am so sorry to hear of Michael's death.
--Gail V. Redden

January 26, 2020

I am so sad to hear of Michael's death. He was my late brother Richard's best friend and I always considered him my friend also.Rest in peace Michael, you were a kind soul.

Mayumi and Seth

January 25, 2020

You always had a hello and a welcoming smile ready for everyone. Your kind, wry manner never failed to brighten the day. We'll miss you, Mike.

Dennis & Lois Shaffer

January 25, 2020

He was a good neighbor rest in peace Mike the Shaffer's at 521

Corkey Metrick

January 24, 2020

Your smiling face will be missed

Showing 1 - 23 of 23 results