Tommy Gale Raper

February 22, 1938 - September 9, 2012

Tommy Gale Raper, formerly of Millsap, Texas, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 9, 2012 with his family by his side. A memorial service will be held in Jacksboro, Texas on Saturday, September 15, 2012 at 9 a.m. at the Wesley Chapel Cemetery. Nephew and Reverend Todd Cooper will officiate.

Tommy was born February 22, 1938 in Olney, Texas to Minerva Jane (Culver) and Donald Loyd Raper. He joined the United States Army in 1955, and retired as an E6 Sergeant after 20 years of service. He then worked for Lear Siegler on military helicopter upgrades, which took him to Hawaii and Alaska. He then worked for Bell Helicopter in Hurst, Texas and Heli-Dyne Inc. in Granbury, Texas, which included work on DEA planes and medi-vac helicopter upgrades.

Tommy had a kind and loving heart and could be found cooking for his co-workers or family. He never went anywhere empty handed. He loved history, watching old westerns, fishing, and taking care of man's best friend and his companion, Bandito. He will be dearly missed by his care-givers, many friends, and especially his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece.

He is survived by two daughters and a son-in-law, Carla Wiseniske of Millican, Texas; Sonya and Barry Bouse of College Station, Texas; three grandchildren: Ethan Wiseniske, Ashley and Ryan Bouse; a sister and brother-in-law, Revena and Snuffy Brooks; a brother and sister-in-law, Terry and Annette Rapier; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a "special" thanks to the staff at the College Station Medical Center and St. Joseph's Manor for their care, concern, and loving hands of help during Mr. Raper's illness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley 502 W. 26th Street, Bryan TX 77803 or American Cancer Society 3207 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan TX 77802.

View his Book of Memories™ at CallawayJones.com