Gregg Howard Appel

We are sad to announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Gregg went peacefully and unexpectedly in his sleep and leaves a grieving, but grateful family for his enormous love, laughter, hospitality, welcoming nature, and extremely generous spirit.
Gregg was preceded in death earlier this year by his dearly-missed Son Jeffrey Howard Appel. Also preceding him in death were his Parents Leon and Veva Appel, and Sister Gloria Fry (Tim) and Brother-in-Law Norm Clark.
Gregg is survived by the love of his life, Charlotte, his Son Ben (Rachel) and Grandson Mason; his Son Ryan (Graziela) and Grandchildren Isabella and Leonardo. Surviving also are siblings Glenda Allison (Jim), Gail Guzzardo (John), Mike Appel (Diana), and Gene Appel (Barbara). Also surviving are many Family Nieces and Nephews who share treasured memories of summers in Minnesota together.
Born in Lincoln, IL to parents Leon and Veva Appel, Gregg was one of six children. He was the first boy in the family following his 3 older sisters. His Dad was so excited to have a son that he went to the church and rang the church bell!
Gregg was a 1973 graduate of Lincoln Community High School where he played football and ran track. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in 1976 at Western Illinois University, and went on to finish his Masters in 1978 while also working as a graduate assistant at WIU.
He began his lifelong career at Caterpillar in 1979, with most of his energies focused internationally based in Geneva, Switzerland, including nearly 4 years in Russia. His professional contributions included managing parts pricing business, marketing specialist, used equipment manager with travels to South Africa, Japan and Russia. Gregg wrapped up his career, retiring in 2010.
Gregg loved life, loved people, loved traveling and engaging with people of all backgrounds and cultures. His career with Caterpillar gave him a global perspective.
He enjoyed sailing, biking, boating and especially family times together on his favorite lake in Northern Minnesota with his much-loved boys and their families. We hold so many treasured memories of multi-generational family fun, pranks, "disaster" slumber parties, great food, deep relationships, and amazing grace as the 4th generation of Appels continue to bond at the lake. One more cherished family member will be smiling down on carried-out traditions and shenanigans.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 14 at Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary, 6500 E Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ. Viewing at 10 am MT. Celebration of Life at 11 am MT. Reception to follow. The Celebration of Life also is available on livestream at https://vimeo.com/768731292