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Ruthi Rapp Obituary
Ruth Ann Clark was born on July 4, 1945, to Ben and Ruth (Dowell) Clark and was raised in Prairie Village, KS. She graduated with a degree in education from the University of Kansas. Most of Ruthi's teaching career was in 8th grade English and History at South Junior High in Lawrence, KS. Before retiring, she became the Social Studies Coordinator for Lawrence Public Schools. In her "retirement," Ruthi worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and as a para at Liberty Memorial Central Middle School and Deerfield Elementary School. In the last few years, Ruthi tutored students at the Boys and Girls Club teen center.
On a unique blind date of roller skating in 1976, Ruthi found her person in Patrick Rapp. They married just three months later and celebrated 48 years of marriage on April 10th. Their son Darren was adopted in 1980, giving daughter Elizabeth a sibling.
While working full time and raising two children, Ruthi earned her Master's degree in Education from the University of Kansas.
In addition to her husband Pat, Ruthi is survived by her brother Milt, daughter Elizabeth, bonus daughter April, step children Michael and Cameron, eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Ruthi was preceded in death by her parents and son Darren Andrew Rapp.
Along with her passion for education, Ruthi supported Lawrence, KS through service on committees like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), the St. Patrick's Day Committee, Kids Voting and summer enrichment for Boys and Girls Club. Her sole hobby was supporting others. Ruthi could be seen at nearly every game, camp send-off, music program and celebration. She was a champion for the activities and studies of her grandchildren in Lawrence and countless people succeeded through her love and guidance.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Lawrence Humane Society, 1805 E. 19th Street, Lawrence, KS 66046 or Douglas County CASA, 725 N. 2nd Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
A celebration of life in Ruthi's honor will be held at Rappaho Vineyard at 5:00pm on Saturday, June 29, 2024, in Vinland, KS.
For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruthi Rapp
Christine Conner
July 7, 2024
My sympathies to the family as you grieve this loss. Ruthi managed the computer lab at LMCMS. She was always helpful, pleasant and personable. She had a quiet laugh and enjoyed witty humor so I tried to have a joke or quip to share when I saw her. I am sure she will be greatly missed and equally sure she is welcomed joyously in her new home!
Joe Robinson
July 6, 2024
Hey Pat, I´m so sorry to hear about your loss. I am back in town, and would love to visit with you. Ruthie was such a wonderful person to know, as you are, and I´m sorry that I missed the memorial. My thoughts are with you. I will try to contact you soon.
Joe Robinson
Jewel Smith
June 29, 2024
We are so sad about Ruthi. She was always such a delightful friend. //Dana is in Europe on vacation and Tracy is camping with girlfriends and I am sick and unable to come to the Celebration of Life. We all send our love to you, Pat and Bethi as you continue on. We so appreciated seeing Ruthi at Debbi Beene's Celebration and had a wonderful time catching up with her. May Ruthi rest in peace
Cynthia Peters Sullivan
June 23, 2024
Bethi and family,
My sincere condolences on the untimely passing of your mom.
Bethi, I was so shocked to hear of this especially since we´ve all just been together at Mr. Kubota`s funeral.
May wonderful memories sustain you and the entire family in the days ahead
Cynthia
Mike Sise
June 23, 2024
Pat, you have my deepest sympathy on the death of Ruthi. She sounds like a wonderful person, and I feel sorry for your great loss. May Ruthi rest in peace and know the joy of living in the Kingdom of God for all eternity with her loved ones. Mike and Sheila Sise
Rick Merker
June 23, 2024
Pat- My heartfelt condolences to you on the loss of your wife, it sounded like she was a caring, giving person and a great soulmate. Having lived the way she did assures she is in heaven looking down on you and the family. My Jesus help you in this time of sorrow.
Jim Whitaker
June 23, 2024
Pat- my prayer is that you can find comfort in your faith and the love and support of family and friends at this so very difficult time. Fondly, Jim Whitaker.
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Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
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