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Edward Rapatz Obituary

RAPATZ, Dr., Edward R. In Browerville, MN on January 18, 1927 Edward R. Rapatz was born to Mary and Louis Rapatz, the fourth of six children. After graduating from medical school at McGill University, Canada, he completed residency at Sacramento County Hospital and later appointed Director of Emergency Services. He practiced medicine in Sacramento for several years, reaching his utopia while serving as a Flight Surgeon in the United States Coast Guard. He received numerous commend ations of valor and heroism including two Sikorsky Helicopter Rescue Awards and a plaque dedicated in his honor located at the Rockmore-King Clinic while serving with the USCG Support Center in Kodiak, Alaska. During his tour at Air Station Borinquen in Puerto Rico, he was credited with saving many lives during/ after Hurricane Hugo. His survivors include his beloved wife Vera of 55 years, his adored daughter Ingrid and son-in-law Herald (Rex), his pride and joy grandchildren, Ryan (12), Bria (10) and Carina (7), sister, several nieces and nephews. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting/fishing and gardening. He was a humble man with a genuine heart and passion to care for others. "My career has been most rewarding. It is exciting and challenging. I would not trade it for anything." Edward passed peacefully on June 18, 2014. A service will be held at the Arlington National Cemetery. Remembrances in his name may be contributed to Sutter Care at Home, Roseville Hospice 916-797-7850 or research for the cure of Prostate Cancer

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Published by The Sacramento Bee on Aug. 3, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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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.

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