Arlene Rapp, age 84, of Madeira, Ohio, passed away on September 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Arlene was preceded in passing by her husband and best friend of over 50 years, Frederik Louis Rapp; as well as daughter Cheryl and son Patrick. Arlene was a devoted mother to Cheryl (Dan) Whitton, Mike (Linda), Tom (Robyn) and Patrick Rapp. She was grandmother and confidant to four grandchildren, Samantha, Dawn, McKenzie and Marshall, and GiGi to two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Lexi. She was truly in her element and happiest when she was surrounded by her family and sharing the simple pleasures of life.

She was a longtime employee of McAlpin's, before she retired to enjoy quality time with Fred. She regularly attended bingo in Milford, every Tuesday night for nearly 30 years. There were times that we questioned where we stood if it was a bingo night, because she WAS GOING to bingo, so you had to plan accordingly, because if there was a conflict, bingo was winning. She also took time to meet with former classmates and childhood friends, playing cards and meeting for regular lunch dates.

A lover of the water, Arlene spent countless hours on the family's boat, Juno, first on Lake Cumberland and later cruising the Ohio River. Whether soaking in the sun on the beach, by the pool, or aboard the boat, she was happiest when near the water and surrounded by those she loved. Her family gatherings were often centered around her home, where her pool was always open during the summer. She was lovingly called Grandma by many friends of the family, especially the friends of her grandchildren. She had a special way of making everyone feel welcome, with open arms and a cold Natty Light beer in hand—the running joke being that no matter how long the day stretched, she never had more than three. Known for her sharp tongue and quick wit were matched only by her warm heart, and she had a way of making everyone around her feel at home.

For Arlene, life's greatest joy came in spending time with her family. We made regular pilgrimages to various places, but for her one place holds a special place in her heart. Cape Hatteras. She loved the Cape, she first discovered Cape Hatteras in the 90s and made several trips there not only with family, but regularly with friends. Her greatest joy on the Cape was when she could see a storm approaching. Everyone else would be lamenting the storm because it generally meant we would be stuck inside, but for Mom, it provided two opportunities. First, she would be able to see the lightning and feel the thunder as the storm made its way up the coast and second, she had a captive audience for a full day of playing Shanghai, generally with her whipping our tails. Whether she was playing Shanghai Rum around the pool or table or just sitting around laughing and talking, she cherished the opportunity to be with her friends and family.

Arlene's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a family that will continue to celebrate her vibrant spirit, her deep love for those closest to her, and her ability to turn any gathering, large or small, into lasting memories of laughter and great times.

Friends and family are welcome to a Celebration of Life and open house on Saturday, October 5th, 2024 from 2 to 5 PM at the Schoolhouse Restaurant, 8031 Glendale Milford Rd. in Camp Dennison. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Hospice of Southwest Ohio .

Hospice of Southwest Ohio
7625 Camargo Rd, Cincinnati OH 45243
Tel: 1-513-770-0820
Web: https://www.hswo.org/