Howard Lee Rapoport, 89, died Sept. 19, 2018.
Educated in St. Louis, Mr. Rapoport graduated from University City High School and later Washington University with a degree in business. Among his duties while in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict was serving as his company’s bugler. He later held positions of vice president and executive vice president, merchandise manager with major retailers Famous-Barr and Levy’s. He was president and owner of the College Shops in Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. Before retiring, he established a retail consulting firm, Raptech Consulting Services. Before settling in Tucson, Mr. Rapoport served on the board of directors of the St. Louis Area Boy Scout Council, Clayton Chamber of Commerce and the St. Louis Jewish Community Center Association. In Tucson, he was the first vice president of the Tucson Symphony, president of the El Con Merchants Association and president of the Camino del Rey Home Owners’ Association.
Mr. Rapoport was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Elaine Klein Rapoport; his brother, Warren Rapoport; and sister, Erma Morris.
Survivors include his children, Robin Abootalebi of Tucson and Edward Rapoport and his fiancée Marci Kaminsky of Chicago; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and his brother-in-law, Louis (Rita) Klein.
A graveside service was held at Evergreen Cemetery with Rabbi Thomas Louchheim of Congregation Or Chadash officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to either Peppi’s House or Congregation Or Chadash.
