Larry Rapoport Obituary (1934 - 2020)

Larry Rapoport, born December 12, 1934, died September 11, 2020. Preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Betty Rapoport of Cedar Rapids, IA; sister, Barbara Silverman of Rosalyn Heights, NY; brother, David Rapoport of St. Louis Park, MN; and granddaughter, Rachael Reese. Survived by daughters, Sara Strouts, Michelle Uhden, Mia Rapoport and Judith Rapoport; sister, Joanne Levy of Kingwood, TX; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Larry had a storied and rich life, starting with his humble beginnings in Cedar Rapids, IA as the youngest child of 4 siblings. Larry’s mischievous behavior “assisted” him in joining the Marines Corp, an accomplishment he was always proud of and more than willing to talk about and celebrate. Upon completion of his Marine Corps service, Larry attended the University of Iowa and developed his passion in photography and communications by serving on the school newspaper, working at a local radio station and eventually attending the University of Iowa law school. After law school he landed in Minneapolis where Larry joined the Office of the Hennepin County Attorney, prosecuting difficult cases and rising to be the position of Chief Deputy for the late Justice George Scott. Upon leaving the County Attorney, Larry not only entered a private practice, but he continued his public service by working tirelessly as a part-time public defender. Larry’s expertise in the courtroom, his timeless knowledge of every Judge and nearly all members in the criminal defense bar made him a formidable adversary, an excellent trial lawyer, a good friend and a premier criminal defense lawyer over his astounding 55 year career. Despite his active practice, Larry always took the time to mentor and support less experienced lawyers, whether prosecutors or budding defense attorneys. One of the most remarkable things about Larry was his insistence on being available for his clients. He never failed to answer the call or question, no matter what time of day it was or what else he was doing – even when he was in the courtroom or on a golf course (as many of his friends and colleagues will undoubtedly confirm). Larry’s devotion to the law, other people and the activities in his life was apparent to all who were lucky enough to know and work with him. Larry’s legal and business skills were not limited to the courtroom. His law practice branched out into his representation of the WWF tag team, the Road Warriors, and other wrestling superstars. He also had several business ventures in Minnesota and Hawaii. He cherished his children, grandchildren and innumerable friends and was always there with indispensable advice, support and, if needed, tough love. He always was the life of any event or gathering, regaling everyone with unending stories from the extraordinary life he had lived. He constantly sought out colleagues and friends to golf, dine, or head out to the local establishment to relax, and, of course, to play pull tabs. Larry will be terribly missed by his family, friends and colleagues. He was truly old school, a one of a kind and had a truly extraordinary and wonderful life, worthy of celebration. Private services being held. A gathering to celebrate Larry will take place in 2021.