In loving memory of

Donald R. Bappe
June 2, 1935 - April 17, 2019

Donald R. Bappe, age 83, of Ames, passed away at his home on April 17, 2019. A private family burial was held in the Ames Municipal Cemetery on Friday, April 19, 2019. Friends may call from 4-6:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the Adams Funeral Home where there will be a memorial service at 6:00 P.M. and light refreshments following the memorial service. Born on June 2, 1935 at the family home in Mallard, IA, Don was the son of Charles and Mildred (Pederson) Bappe. He graduated from Ames High School in 1953. Don enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he was a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne, and was honorably discharged. He was united in marriage to Bonita Weltha in Story City on April 9, 1960. Don worked as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in 1990. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed all sports, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and Green Bay Packers, along with playing fast-pitch softball. Don's faith was very important to him and he lived the life of an evangelist, making sure everyone knew about the Lord. He was a 56-year member of the Westside Church of Christ in Ames. Don was an unsung angel to many people, helping anyone he could, never expecting any recognition or accolades. Don was a great husband, father, and grandfather never missing an opportunity to spend time with his family. He enjoyed the time he had with each of his children and grandchildren and loved to teach them new things. He spent time with each one individually, taking them fishing or playing games one-on-one. Don is survived by his wife of 59 years, Bonita of Ames; daughters: Donna Johnson of Ames and Terri (Earlman) Bailey of Fort Worth, TX; four grandchildren: Gabriel (Vivian) Johnson, Michael Johnson, Josiah Johnson, and Mariah Johnson; 2 great-grandchildren: Grace Johnson and Uriah Johnson; a sister-in-law, Nina Bappe; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Robert (Norma) Bappe, Joan (Robert) Danielson, and Dale Bappe. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Adams Funeral Home in Ames and online condolences may be left for Don's family at www.adamssoderstrum.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Don's name may be directed to Westside Church of Christ.

To read the full obituary, please click here: http://www.adamssoderstrum.com/obituaries/Donald-R-Bappe?obId=4321366#/obituaryInfo

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