Memorial services for Robert Rappold, a former senior instructor in the College of Engineering and Applied Science, were March 1 at Holy Apostles Catholic Church, Colorado Springs. He was 73.
He was a senior instructor from 1997 to 2007 and was instrumental in establishing the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering’s systems engineering and extended studies programs. He was a lecturer in the college’s online systems engineering graduate program from 2007 to 2010.
An obituary, as prepared by family members and published in the Colorado Springs Gazette, follows.
Robert Allen Rappold
Long time Colorado Springs resident, born and raised in New Orleans, LA, played varsity football and baseball in high school and attended Tulane University on a football scholarship.
He joined the US Air Force in 1962 and was a missile launch officer, attended CU Boulder for his M.S., served at The Pentagon, graduated from Texas A&M University with his Ph.D. in Operations Research, and became a tenured Professor of Mathematics at the US Air Force Academy. Upon his military retirement as a Lt Col, he worked in the aerospace industry for 15 years. After his second retirement, he returned to academia for 13 years, teaching in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at UCCS. He often commented how blessed he felt to have enjoyed all three of his professional careers. In his genuine retirement he liked volunteering, hiking and biking in the mountains, and reading extensively.
Bob was an active member of Holy Apostles Catholic Church for over 30 years, participating in youth, engaged, married, and peace and justice ministries.
Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years, Gayle, sons Eric (Ana), Scott (Bill), Kyle, Troy, and daughter Vicky (Bruno). He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Emmie and Quint Mediate, Keziah Arnold, and Mila, Elena, and Martina Rappold.
A viewing will take place at 10 am and Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am on Fri, Feb 28 at Holy Apostles Catholic Church. A luncheon will follow in the Parish Hall. Interment will be Sat, Mar 1 at 10:30 am at Evergreen Cemetery, Colorado Springs. If desired, donations in his honor may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, The US Olympic Committee, or Holy Apostles Catholic Church Youth Program.
Online condolences may be left at http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazette/obituary.aspx?n=robert-allen-rappold&pid=169886557&fhid=6111#sthash.HL2qya9y.dpuf
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