July 16, 1970 - August 25, 2024
Michael Robert Lappe, 54, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on August 25, 2024 in Plano TX, after a sudden illness. Mike was the cherished son of Robert and Joan Lappe, born July 16th 1970 in Omaha, Nebraska. A proud graduate of Creighton Prep High School, he loved being part of the football team and playing as a linebacker during their 1985-89 State Football Championships. He graduated with a major in Business Administration and Marketing from Creighton University where he served as Vice President of Programming, Creighton Student Board of Governors, and President, Sigma Phi Epsilon; organized service trips around the U.S. on his spring breaks; and played Rugby for the GOATs.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike hiked many mountains in Colorado (most of the 14ers) and skied down many of them, fished the northern boundary waters and in Canada, fly fished in New Mexico, Colorado, Montana and New Zealand, golfed some amazing courses throughout the U.S., and enjoyed many other travel adventures with his family and friends. His home for the past 8 years was Hurst, Texas where he was converted to the belief that Texas BBQ is the best BBQ.
A committed professional, Mike worked in business development, client management, and employer services at the Fortune 500 level. For the past 16 years he worked for Holman (ARI) Fleet Management, Mt. Laurel NJ, where he made many lasting friendships. His friends and colleagues said he had a warm presence towards which people gravitated. Mike always met you with a bright smile and hilarious story. Colleagues referred to him as "Hans Christian Lappe" for his tall tales.
Mike's family was his biggest passion. He and his dad were greatly outnumbered by all the women in the family, which probably led to his decision to be a life-long bachelor. His three beloved nieces adored him, and he would do anything for them. He was an amazing brother to his three sisters, who all thought he was hilarious, a masterful storyteller and a snappy dresser. Mike was the absolute best son, travel companion and Husker football and Creighton basketball-watching buddy to his mom and dad.
Mike was a loving, empathic person who had a passion and excitement for life like no other. Although those who love him feel his life was too short, he lived fully and enjoyed many adventures on his bucket list. He was greatly loved and will be missed beyond words.
Mike is survived by his mom Joan and dad Bob, sisters Michelle Marcuzzo, Nicole (Robert) Boehne and Lisa Lappe, nieces Georgia Boehne, Leah Marcuzzo and Jessica Marcuzzo and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Mike was preceded in death by his grandparents, Herman and Lillian Ortmeier and Nick and Frances Lappe, and his beloved dog, Jack, whom we know has been waiting for him to climb more mountains, go pheasant hunting and catch more fish.
A FUNERAL MASS will be held at St. John's Church on the Creighton University campus on Saturday, October 5, at 10 a.m., A CELEBRATION OF LIFE will be held that afternoon, Saturday October 5, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Council Bluffs Country Club, 4500 Piute St, Council Bluffs, IA.
AMEMORIAL for Mike is being planned, and anyone who wishes to contribute can send that to the Lappe family at 10 Westlake Village, Council Bluffs IA 51501.