Janet Helen “Jani” Rappe, 53, passed away unexpectedly at home Monday, Jan. 15, 2018. Jani, as she was affectionately known, was the youngest daughter of Janet E. and John C. Rappe of Brunswick Forest.
Born April 6, 1964, in Meadville, Pa., Jani spent her childhood years in Fairview, Pa., and moved to Wilmington in 2000.
Jani was a 1982 graduate of Fairview High School where she participated on the swimming and softball teams. She was active in the Masonic Order of the Rainbow for Girls and became worthy advisor of the local chapter.
Jani was an avid snow skier and loved nothing more than to see the new fallen snow. Throughout her life, she was a voracious reader and belonged to numerous book clubs. Traveling was also a favorite pastime, and Jani would often thoroughly research her destinations.
Her recent vocation was providing assistance to many people who ultimately became her friends. In recent years, her greatest joys were providing care and companionship to her “furry friends.” Jani will be remembered as a caring and giving individual.
Jani was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Helen and Charles Rappe; as well as her maternal grandparents, Margaret and Eric Eales.
In addition to her loving parents, she is survived by her siblings, Susan R. Sullivan (Keith) of Vero Beach, Fla., Mary R. Ruckelshaus (John) of Indianapolis, Ind., Charles E. Rappe (Megan) of Atlanta, Ga., and John E. Rappe (Kristin) of Duxbury, Mass. In addition, “Auntie Hoo,” as she was affectionately known, is survived by her nieces and nephews who were her pride and joy, Sarah Hawkins (Zann), Susie Williams (Mike), Jack Sullivan, Drew, Maggie and Jay Ruckelshaus, Eric, Courtney, Kyle, Kelsey and Lindsay Rappe, and Ian and Devin Rappe. Also surviving are great-nieces, Hollis and Caroline Hawkins; and great-nephews, Owen and Sullivan Williams; as well as her aunt, Margaret Pilditch. She will be greatly missed by her best friend and constant companion, Teddy.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, at St. Andrews on the Sound Episcopal Church, Wilmington, with the Rev. Sarah Smith officiating. The family looks forward to greeting guests at a reception following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Janet’s name may be made to causes that were near to her heart; such as, Paw’s Place Dog Rescue or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Share online condolences with the family at andrewsmortuary.com.
