To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Patti Ivory
May 9, 2015
I was a corpsman in Kodiak in from 1985 to 1987. I have a lot of "Capt Rapatz" stories. He encouraged me to further my education, mentored many of us while we were in Kodiak, and was a pillar of strength and resilience when Dr. Rockmore and Chip King died in a helicopter crash. He was one of the true heroes I have known in my lifetime.
December 7, 2014
I was so sadden hear of the passing of Dr Rapatz my heart goes out to Vera and Ingrid. We had developed such a great friendship while at Hamilton Air Force Base. Swim team, wives club and just spending time together.
Dr Rapatz you will be so missed but never forgotten.
With all our Love Star, Roger, Jeff and Tabitha
October 26, 2014
I am so saddened to learn of the death of Dr.Rapatz. My husband, DT1 Jeff LeClaire, was stationed with the Captain in Kodiak, AK. Jeff had the greatest respect for "Cap'n Rapatz". The Captain taught his Coast Guard Corpsmen to provide the best possible care for their patients, even if it meant going up against a higher ranking officer. Capt. Rapatz always stood with his Corpsmen when they were doing their jobs to care for the patient. Jeff never forgot the knowledge he gained working with Capt. Rapatz. Sadly, Jeff lost his life in 2011, but I'm certain he was on the tarmac in full dress uniform, rendering a respectful salute when Capt. Rapatz arrived at his newest duty station. Full Sails and Following Seas, Captain Rapatz. You will be missed...
Vera, ingrid, Ryan, Bria and Carina, and Rex Rapatz
August 30, 2014
You were a wonderful husband, dad, grandfather. brother You touched so many lives. Saying we will miss you always is just a part of what we are feeling, saying we will love you always isn't enough...Just know that you are loved so much.
August 10, 2014
With love in our hearts for you always. We miss you so much and think of you constantly. The world was a better place with you in it...God Bless and love always. Your family.
August 5, 2014
We are both saddened by the death of dear Edward. We know how he will be missed by his family. His quiet demeanor and dry sense of humor were endearing. We will always think of him when we have the onion soup he loved so much. He will be missed!
With affection, Brian and Audrey Matte
Mont Smith
August 4, 2014
I am very sorry to learn of Dr. Rapatz's passing. He was a superb physician and mentor to many Coast Guard folks and dependents. I served with him in Borinquen, Puerto Rico and Kodiak, Alaska. Our sincere condolences go out to Vera, Ingrid, Rex and the grandchildren.
Mike Skirchak
August 4, 2014
Dr Rapatz was a great doctor but even a greater person. I was really glad he was my flight surgeon and doctor to my family when we served together in Puerto Rico. Without a doubt he was a very special person who I will remember until I die.
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more