James W. Rapp

James W. Rapp, 77, of Asheville, NC, passed away on Saturday, May 22, 2021.

James was born on June 25, 1943 in Jersey City, New Jersey to the late Herbert Albert Rapp and the late Dorothy Reineke Rapp. James is also preceded in death by his son, Joseph Rapp.

James spent most of his career as a machine operator. James entered the US Navy in 1960, where he was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal in Cuba, the First Good Conduct Award, and the National Defense Service Medal. James was also a member of Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion.

James was a natural born poet who loved writing about life experiences, the changing seasons, and his family. He had many of his poems published over the years in various literacy publications and won several awards for his contributions. James also loved reading and had an extensive collection of books. James also enjoyed collecting coins.

James is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara A. Rapp; children, Patty Griechen (Rich) of Turnersville, NJ, Michelle Davidson of Hendersonville, NC, James Rapp (Cindy) of Anderson, SC, Robert Rapp (Tammy) of Hendersonville, NC, Robin Long (Billy) of Hendersonville, NC, and Chris Rapp of Hendersonville, NC; grandchildren, Joe Griechen, Matt Griechen, Brandon Davidson, Jennifer Davidson, Danielle Rapp, Jessica Bishop, Kassidy Chavez, Johnathan Moulton, Caitlin Rapp, Sean Rapp, Dylan Rapp, Connor Rapp, Heather Rapp, and Zachary Young. James is also survived by 19 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place at Shuler Funeral Home in Hendersonville, NC on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at 11:00 AM with a reception to follow at the family home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James’ memory to any Veteran’s Organization, which may include, but not limited to Disabled American Veterans, The American Legion, or Veterans Restoration Quarters.