Ret. Cpt. James “Jim” Rapp
Ret. Cpt. James “Jim” Rapp, was called to heaven July 27th, 2018 in Lansing, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his Father, Arthur James Rapp, Mother, Elizabeth Beauton Rapp, and Sister Cathy Hawkins (Rapp). He is survived by Daughter Elizabeth Treanor of Lansing, Daughter Emily (Steve) Richards of Farmington Hills, Grandchildren, Ella Treanor, Evienne and Beauden Richards, and Brother Rodney (Pat) Rapp. He is also survived by his Loving Partner, Cheryl Smith of Lansing, her Daughter Lisa (Travis) Metcalf of Eagle, Son Mark Smith (Jem Cornish) of Wolverine Lake, and her Grandchildren Hunter and Ryleigh Metcalf.
Jim was born in Lansing on June 26th, 1946. He attended Lansing Everett High School where he received an athletic letter in swimming, wrestling, football, basketball and track. He earned the title of All-State, All-City Halfback in ‘63-‘64. He received a football scholarship to Kansas State University where he played wide receiver under Coach Doug Weaver. Jim served in the US Army as a medic. Jim later returned to Lansing in 1969 to pursue a policing career for the Lansing Police Department. While at LPD he served on the Board of Directors for Cristo Rey as well the Capital Community Development Committee for the United Way. He ran in the Law Enforcement Torch Run Marathon for Special Olympics and Participated in the PIGS/FREAKS Community Football Game for St. Jude. He was a part of the Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network, Narcotic Team Advisory Board, The Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, and the FBI National Associates. These are just a few of the organizations and professional memberships that Jim was a part of. During his time as a police officer, he also received his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with Honors and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University.
After 26 years of service for the Lansing Police Department, Jim retired with title of captain. From there he joined Michigan State University as a Curriculum Developer for Community Policing during 1995-1997. While at MSU he traveled internationally to teach best practice in community policing. In 1997 he joined the State of Michigan to become a grant writer for drug control policies where he retired in June of 2015.
Jim’s love for golf was only outweighed by his love for family and friends. He was the member of the Medalist Golf Course in Marshall, Michigan, and Managed Mountain Lake Golf Course for four years in Gaylord, Michigan. Jim played golf religiously with his friends, many of whom refer to themselves as the “LLFOJ” or “Lifelong Friends of Jim.” One of his other passions was being with his friends riding horses through the mountains of Idaho.
Known for his captivating sense of humor and devilish grin, he could light up any room. His smile was contagious, nothing made him smile more often than his daughters and grandchildren. Always the one to put others’ needs before his own, even if it meant skipping a tee time.
Documenting the full breadth of his legacy would be impossible. The loved ones he leaves behind have fond memories in abundance, and his memory will live on through them all.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 2nd at 11:00 a.m. at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 1st from 4:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Miracle Network or American Cancer Society.
27 Messages to “Ret. Cpt. James “Jim” Rapp”
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Mike & Danna Dixon
July 28, 2018 at 1:14 pmUnfortunately, we will be out of town. Jimmy, you will be missed by all who have known you. You touched so many lives. To the girls, Liz & Em, we all have wonderful memories & we know you will miss all of his fun. Cheryl, you have been a special friend to Jimmy & I know this is difficult for you as well. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you at this time.
Much love, Mike & Danna Dixon
Jeffrey Whipple
July 28, 2018 at 8:31 pmLike many of Jim’s Everett Viking 1964 classmates, I have known Jim since 7th grade. He was an outstanding athlete, great friend and brought many talents to our class. He was funny, involved with many activities during high school and of late a valuable member of our classes’ reunion committee; doing yeoman’s work to make them successful. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.
For me personally, I have been running Jim memories through my mind since hearing of his passing. There far too many to relate but several meaningful ones are: my first Jim experience was 7th grade intramural basketball; Jim, Larry Smith and Jim Seagraves in the same homeroom and difficult to compete with on the court. Summer baseball at Sycamore where Jim introduced us to wearing your ball cap like a catcher (bill to the back) while wearing his batting helmet the way it was designed to be worn; he looked like Sherlock Holmes in his deer stalker cap. 8th grade found us playing Pop Warner football for Small’s Comets. There was only one other team in the league, so we’d practice M-Th and then play them every Sunday during Sept and Oct. Jim was a hard worker, quick as a jackrabbit and scored the majority of our touchdowns, but also the cause of many laughs and great fun at practice. The best Jimbo story from back then was when he decided to take his dad’s car for a joy ride in 9th grade ???
Art did not think it so funny but we were in awe of his “bravery” although Jim never did share his punishment other than the being grounded part.
Jim has positively touched so many people in his life and he will be greatly missed as he now Rests in Peace.
Andrea Urbon
July 28, 2018 at 9:03 pmIt is sad to lose Jim at such a young age. (We Vickings of 64 are the same age) so this reminds us all of our own mortality. Jim you will be sadly missed by all but we will remember our personal interactions that were full of laughter. You were special to all, your girls, Cheryl and extended family. He is no longer in pain but has passed that on to those of us left. We will remember the good.
Judie Huhn Benson
July 28, 2018 at 9:53 pmSo very sorry to hear of the passing of Jim.
Marnee Cohoon Lone
July 29, 2018 at 3:26 amTo all of our Viking Family and Jims family, we send our deepest sympathy and prayers. We have fond memories of Jim. Jim and Ron Clevenger. were of great help to us in our time of need which meant a lot to us. We have never forgotten it. Walt Lone & Marnee Cohoon Lone
Larry L Peterson
July 29, 2018 at 12:36 pmMy sincerest condolences to the family of Jim Rapp. May he rest in peace.
Jimmy G. Patrick
July 29, 2018 at 3:38 pmR.I.P. Jim.
Jimmy Patrick, Ret. MSP
Dawn Pung Foster
July 29, 2018 at 4:55 pmI have know Jim since Junior High (Walter French) he loved his sports back then and he was absolutely outstanding in high school. I also being a Viking Class of ’64 can attest to his pranks and sincere kindness. My most fondest memories of Jim was during high school. During cheerleading, and girls gymnastics’ team practice. The guys practicing their sport on the other side of the divider, were always peeking through the cracks. Then he would always tease my about my workout leotards, even at class reunions. Ah such fun and great memories. Sorry to loose you on this earth my friend, you will always be in memories. My sincere condolences to your family and friends.
Michael Tellshow
July 29, 2018 at 5:26 pmMy heart goes out to the family. I will miss Jim’s great sense of humor and the friendship that developed over the years. Michigan Week at Spring Lake golf resort in Sebring was always a blast because of his presence. RIP my friend.
Angela Oleksiak
July 29, 2018 at 5:38 pmI was blessed to have worked with Jim at the State of Michigan almost 20 years ago. I still remember his infectious smile, his kindness, and the way he brightened every day with his joyous presence. I am so sorry for your loss.
Mark Menghini
July 29, 2018 at 5:46 pmR.I.P Jim. A great guy and fellow worker at ODCP. Gone too soon.
Mark Menghini Ret MSP
Jim seegraves
July 29, 2018 at 8:30 pmHave known Jimmy Rapp since we were both 12 yrs old. We never lost touch and would see each other at least once a year at my Farm in Florida. He was a great friend and I shall never forget his laugh and smile. I think about him everyday. The world just doesn’t seem the same now he that he is gone. Love you my friend and hope you are laughing and playing golf.
Diane Lee Travis Castle
July 30, 2018 at 10:04 amI only knew James from the time he joined the LAPD and had so much fun
with he and is cronies. Many trips and nightly beers at Jim’s Tiffany. He has touched sooo many lives.
Bob & Linda VanAntwerp
July 30, 2018 at 11:20 amBob and I consider Jim a very good friend that we will truly miss from our lives. Jim was the kind of guy that would walk into a room and light it up with something funny. There are so many memories, parties, weddings, graduations, really hard to pick one better than the other. He loved his family and friends unconditionally. Lizzy, Emily and the grand kids would always bring that infectious smile to his face. He was so proud of them. We send our deepest sympathy to the family, and send our love and condolences to his many close friends that I know feel the same as we do today- very sad and a huge void. He will be missed by so many whose lives he touched. Rest in peace Jim… We will all see you someday…
Suzanne Moore
July 30, 2018 at 12:26 pmI had the pleasure of meeting this great man while working at LPD. He was always cheerful. May your cherished memories of this great man bring you comfort and may knowing that he is in God’s loving embrace give you peace.
Tim Poxson
July 30, 2018 at 12:29 pmGreat Guy always with a smile on his face. I enjoyed working with him at LPD and talking with him when he was at MSP in downtown Lansing. He will be missed. Prayers to his family and RIP Jim
Jo Ellen Flaherty
July 30, 2018 at 6:27 pmI worked with Jim at the City. He was a colleague, a mentor, but most importantly, my friend. He was always there to lend a listening ear. His humor and smile could light up a room. I will always be grateful for our paths crossing. My deepest sympathy to his daughters and extended family and friends.
Robert Heriford
July 30, 2018 at 6:52 pmThis is a shock and a sudden sense of loss that is hard to express. I enjoyed being with Jim. Great sense of humor, compassionate and joyful. Let us all cherish and remember. Let this be a heartfelt note to tell each other how much we care. One never knows. Cheryl and family, I am praying for you.
Bob Heriford
Judy Mathews
July 30, 2018 at 7:00 pmMy memories of Jim go back to high school days (1964 ) When I would see him at high school reunions he would talk as if time had stood still ….a truely special man….my sincere sympathy to his family and to the class of 1964…a special piece of our class is gone. Judy (Hannewald) Mathews
Bonnie Weaks Deledda
July 30, 2018 at 8:00 pmSo sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. I have fond memories of him. Such a nice person. And my condolences to you, Cheryl. He was crazy in love with you.
Kayla Tobias
July 31, 2018 at 9:09 amAs I found out last night along with my Medalist family, my heart broke. Mr. Rapp was one of my most favorite members that I had the pleasure seeing almost every morning out at the golf course. He was the nicest man with a contagious smile. Heaven gained one heck of a man. You will be missed so much by all Mr.Rapp and I will be praying for peace and strength for your loved ones.
Paul and Pam
August 1, 2018 at 7:40 amThe first time I met jimmy he was sitting at the end of the window table at Jim’s Tiffany. Paul was doing a hey Andy and Jim was laughing that great infectious giggle. I fell in love that night with my husband who didn’t care how silly he looked. and knew I wanted to be Jim’s friend because he laughed with all his heart. Jim was our great friend, our confidante, Paul’s rock during the bad times and our brother. Jim Rapp taught us all the meaning of true friendship and our memories will keep him close to us until we can play together in heaven. Goodbye my friend. Rest In Peace knowing that all the people you worried about will be okay. You taught us all how to laugh and love. See ya
John Westol
August 1, 2018 at 7:44 amWas it 56 years ago when I was in the same backfield with “Rapp, Louie, & Pierce”? Time seems to compress as we get older, but I have fond memories still of a great teammate & classmate. Thanks Jim for being a part of those cherished memories.
Susan Bishop
August 1, 2018 at 8:42 amJim worked with me at MSP, he was always very kind and had a great sense of humor. My condolences to you and your family.
Susan
Gary and Marion Owen
August 1, 2018 at 11:47 amGary and Marion Owen
Jim touched so many people and as Linda said, “lit up the room” when he entered. We enjoyed and shall miss our great conversations, always thought provoking and educational, oh and hilarious. Jim has the keenest sense of humor of anyone we have known. We need to laugh when we think of the many funny and unique quips he would have. He would want us all to laugh. Emily, Liz, Cheryl–he is there in your hearts and will live on through his beloved grandchildren and beyond. Much love.
Dr. Jonathan Bechtel
August 3, 2018 at 7:30 amOur deepest sympathies and condolences to the family. Jim was a great guy and had a wonderful sense of humor. His smile and with will be missed by all.
The office of Dr. Jon Bechtel
Julie M Teed
September 4, 2021 at 10:27 pmI am seeing this so late, but feel no less heartbroken. Captain Rapp was a huge source of support for us when we organized our Lansing neighborhood back in the late 1980s. He was kind, decent and professional. He is missed and will not be forgotten….my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.