Donald Stephen Rappold

February 6, 1954—January 20, 2024 Donald Stephen Rappold passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 20, 2024 just shy of his 70th birthday following complications from heart disease. Donald was born on February 6, 1954 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Mary Catherine “Miki” Rappold née Williams and William Andrew “Andy” Rappold, both of whom preceded him in death. It is a comfort to think of the joyful heavenly reunion between Miki and Andy and their youngest son who had cared for them both so lovingly at the end of their earthly lives and who had deeply missed them. Donald was also preceded in death by his beloved nephew, Andrew Rappold. Donald is survived by his brothers William “Bill” Rappold (Linda) and Michael Rappold (Kathy), his nieces and nephews Tressa (Marc), Jason (Becky), Amanda, and Peter, as well as his grand nieces and nephews Tyler, Morgan, Saige, and Aiden. Donald also leaves behind his beloved pet conure, Peepsie, who had been his faithful companion for an amazing 49 years. Donald lived most of his life in Metairie, Louisiana. He attended St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School, Sam Barthe School for Boys, and Marjorie Walters High School. He worked as a laborer for LA-MO Refractory and FCS, Inc. and as a landscaper, and served his family as a devoted son, brother, and uncle. Some of Don’s greatest joys were his many animals. Donald had aquariums with a wide variety of exotic fish and turtles and a beautiful backyard koi pond. He also raised various species of birds such as parakeets, a cockatiel, and of course his conure. Cats and dogs also made their way into his heart. Don loved to socialize and help out at Pop’s Pet Shop. In 2002, Donald moved with his mother Miki to Peoria, Arizona, joining brother Bill and his family. Miki needed nursing care, and Donald visited and helped care for her daily until her passing in 2009. He found faith and friendship at her care center, regularly attending social gatherings and religious services until Covid intervened in 2020. In 2015, Donald began helping at Fallen Feathers, a bird rescue and sanctuary where he was a steadfast volunteer for the last eight years of his life, joyfully caring for many feathered friends. In the words of the director of Fallen Feathers, there never was a sweeter man. The family will hold a private celebration of life. Donald will be laid to rest alongside his parents at Lake Lawn Cemetery in Metairie, Louisiana. Donald was devoted to his Catholic faith, to caring for family in need, and to helping animals. To honor Donald’s memory, be there for your loved ones, protect the creatures of this earth, and consider making a donation to Fallen Feathers at https://fallenfeathers.org.