Robert Charles Rapley

Robert Charles Rapley passed away peacefully at Sakura House Hospice in Woodstock, Ontario, on December 4, 2024, at the age of 92. He was born in Hamilton, Ontario, on July 27, 1932. His life was one filled with love and devotion to his family, friends and faith. With every pain of loss, there is a story to tell and Bob’s is one of simplicity, gratitude, inner peace and kindness.

Bob was a loving husband, first to his late wife Jane Etta Laird Rapley, who passed away in December of 1983, and then to his loving and devoted spouse of 40 years, Jean Elizabeth Taggart Rapley. Together, they made a beautiful family that truly was the epicenter of Bob’s world. He was a beloved father to Elisabeth Lange (Rick), Jim Rapley (Karen), Mary Pinder (Garry), Joel Taggart (Karon), Phil Taggart (Jamie), Glenn Taggart (Rosanna), Leah Taggart and Rachel Murray (Scott). Bob’s legacy will be beautifully carried on by his cherished grandchildren, Lindsay, Alexandra, Gary, Jordan, Laura, Rachael, Joshua, Jayne, Steven, Ken, Whitley, Julia, Braydon, Ryley and Elijah. His later years blessed him with 14 great-grandchildren.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Percival and Charlotte. He was the youngest of his family and shared a loving relationship with his beloved predeceased siblings, William Rapley, Don Rapley, Jack Rapley and Marion Shedden. His passing is truly the end of an era. He shared a loving relationship with his numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was so distracted by loving family, life and counting his blessings that he never realized he was getting older.

Grandpa’s farm outside of Burgessville was the perfect venue for adventures throughout his years. The apple orchard, skating on the pond and numerous sleepovers with the grandchildren provided he and Jean with fond and happy memories. He was a carpenter by trade and proudly owned Bob Rapley Construction for numerous years in Oxford County. He retired from Woodingford Lodge following a lengthy tenure as Maintenance, Laundry, Kitchen and Housekeeping Manager. He could fix anything and his strong work ethic has been successfully passed on to his children. He was a constant source of support, encouragement and kindness to all that knew him. His neighbours, co-workers and virtually anyone he knew, would tell you of his fairness, generosity and propensity to provide you with some insights. Bob was a devoted and diligent member of the Woodstock Christadelphian Church and held his faith close to his heart and in the daily practice of his life.

A Celebration of Life will be conducted at the Brock and Visser Funeral Home, 845 Devonshire Avenue, Woodstock, Ontario on Saturday, January 4th, 2025. Visitation to commence at 11am, Service at 12pm in the funeral home chapel with reception to follow. Bob always loved food and social times shared with family and friends. The family would like to thank The Oxford County Community Palliative Team and everyone at VON Sakura House Hospice for their loving care of him and his family in his final chapter. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bob are asked to consider VON Sakura House Hospice.