RUPPELT, James M. 1927-2011

RUPPELT, MAXWELL

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 3/25/2015 at 21:46:12

James M. Ruppelt, 84, of Grundy Center, Iowa and Naples Florida, died Sunday, August 28, 2011, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. Graveside Services will be 10:30 A.M. Friday, September 2, 2011 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Grundy Center, Iowa. Per Jim's request casual attire may be worn by family and friends. Memorials may be directed to American Cancer Society.

Jim Ruppelt was born in Grundy Center, Iowa on June 4, 1927 the son of Edward A. and Bess (Maxwell) Ruppelt. He attended Grundy Center High School and graduated with the class of 1945. During his senior year he enlisted in the Air Corps Reserve and was called to active duty shortly after graduating. He spent the majority of his service in Germany as an air traffic controller. After being discharged from the Air Corps, Jim attended Iowa State University and received a degree in Forest Management. After graduation he spent 30 years with US Forest Service, mostly in the Western part of the United States.

Jim enjoyed gardening and flying. He spent many hours restoring and flying WW2 airplanes.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine Ruppelt, his father, Edward A. Ruppelt, his mother, Bess Ruppelt and his brother Edward J. Ruppelt.

Local survivors are cousins, Jean Evans and Judith Fernow of Grundy Center.

--Abels Funeral Homes (www.abelsfuneralhomes.com)