Charles Henry Rappard, beloved father, brother, grandfather, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 83 at his home in Lawrence Kansas. Born on April 28, 1942, at his parents’ home east of Overbrook, Kansas, to Elmer Charles Rappard and Helen Fern Flory, Charles lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his faith, and his community.
A graduate of Overbrook High School, Charles excelled in athletics, playing basketball at Chanute Junior College and Hardin-Simmons University where he also threw the discus. His love for sports continued through his participation in fast-pitch softball for many summers alongside his brother Glenn. He and his wife Fran drove school buses and refereed games, all while attending many of their children’s events and activities. Charles taught students from Overbrook, Seaman school district, Boys Industrial School and USD 501 of which he retired from. Charles sold life insurance, farmed, baled hay and raised cattle with his parents and family throughout his life. Charles took great joy in watching his children and grandchildren compete in their own sporting endeavors over the many years.
Charles married Frances Jean Scott from Abilene, TX (daughter of Carl and Lottie Scott) on September 28, 1968. His beloved wife Fran passed away on March 28, 2016, but they have been reunited in the presence of their Savior on October 24, 2025. Charles’ faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life, as he served with Gideons International. His generous spirit shone through in sharing home grown produce with churchgoers and those in need.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Helen; his wife, Frances; his oldest son, Charles Lathan; and his sister, Dorothy and her husband Kenneth.
He is survived by his daughters Laura Roberts (Hal), Sarah Rogers(Tom), son Andrew Rappard (Melanie) and his grandchildren Gideon, Micah, Rinnah, Jeremy and Archer; his brother Glenn; his sisters Margaret and Mary, along with their families.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 am on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, followed by funeral services at 10:00 am at Grace Community Church, 310 E 8th Street, Overbrook, Kansas. Burial will be at Worden Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214 or online at gideons.org/donate
Charlie was a great man. I’m so thankful I knew the Rappard family. Fran was the one that explained to me what a grand slam was!!! I screamed when Marv hit a home run and she was very quick to correct me. Charlie was a great athlete!! Great loving person and someone to look up to. I know how he loved his Fran. Glenn Rappard, Robbie Miller, and Marvin Terhune, (my guy)was called in the office of Northland Christian and told that they played too rough for a Christian league!!! They dominated. It’s not unchristian to be competitive!! And Charlie would support that. I don’t remember many hits off that boy!!
All from the gene pool, you all as family get from your ancestors! I wasn’t able to attend but I know he will be sorely missed. I pray that Jesus will embrace you with his loving arms and hold you all up in this time of loss. Praying for his grace.
I’m so sad to hear of Charlie’s passing. He was a great person with a lot of class. I enjoyed playing both with him and against him on the softball field. He was a great competitor and made everyone around him a better person. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marie and I send our deepest condolences to the family. We both have known Charlie since we were very young. He was a good man to know. His picture depicts his true self.
Condolences to all. I enjoyed working with Mr. Rappard in 501. He was so professional and dependable. Sooty for your loss.
To the Rappard Family,
Sorry for your loss.
I’m sorry to hear about Mr. Rappard, I had him for a middle school teacher and can’t call him anything else. He was a good teacher and coach.
My sincerest condolences to the family.
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