Kevin J. Rapplean Sr. of Saint Charles, MO, passed away at the age of 63 on Sunday, February 16, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Rapplean Sr. and Marion Rapplean; and his sister, Sharon Callahan.
Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Karen Rapplean; his children, Kevin (Maggie) Rapplean, Jr., Scott (Hanh) Rapplean, and Eric (Nichole) Rapplean; his grandchildren, Chase, Ava, Noah, Olivia, Theodore, and Madelyn; his siblings, Edward Rapplean Jr., Kathy Fernandez, Michael (Harriet) Rapplean, Dennis Rapplean, and Stephen (Patty) Rapplean; and he was a loving son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin & friend to many.
Kevin was a dedicated husband, Father, and devout Catholic. He loved his family and God more than anything else. Even with all of the challenges 30+ years with Multiple Sclerosis presented, this love allowed him to persevere through it all due to his unmatched desire and will to watch his family expand and blossom. His positive outlook on life, even during the most challenging times, was a true blessing and an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Kevin loved his sons so much and was an integral part of shaping them into the men they are today. He cherished the time spent with them and enjoyed coaching them in all their athletic activities, everything from soccer to baseball. Kevin was always the boy’s number one fan and a primary source of motivation to improve so they could be their best.
His love for Karen was a testament to what true love is meant to be. Constantly saying I love you, wanting a kiss, surprising her with flowers, and remaining as excited for their date nights as he was when they first met. This love never wavered and continued on until the very end.
Kevin also enjoyed summertime vacations and camping trips with family and friends. Some of his fondest memories with the family were from the times spent camping, floating, fishing, and cliff jumping while at the Black River.
He was an avid St. Louis Blues and Cardinals fan. Seeing the Blues win the Stanley Cup brought him so much joy as he chanted, “Let’s Go Blues!” Kevin also enjoyed taking everyone’s money while playing poker, “I’m all in,” and celebrating with a victory cigar.
Above everything, Kevin’s love and joy came from his family, playing with his grandkids, and spending time with all the people he loved. Kevin leaves behind many legacies and taught us all many lessons. The greatest of which is his unrivaled positive attitude and upbeat approach to life that he displayed each and every day. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him and his impact will live on forever.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in Kevin’s honor to the
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Gateway Area Chapter, 12125 Woodcrest Executive Dr., Suite 320, St. Louis MO 63141.