STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. — Stafford County is mourning the loss of its former director of Public Works, who was among the twelve victims killed in the Virginia Beach shooting on Friday.
"I saw someone describe him as Fred Rogers, and he kinda was," remembered Stafford County’s community engagement manager Shannon Howell, who worked with Rapp.
"He was just one of those people that is super nice, and kind, and he was always smiling," she added.
Rapp was a Virginia Beach native but worked for Stafford County from 2015 to 2017, said Howell.
"I think what makes this so hard for all of us is that Chris was such a nice person," she said. "When someone's so nice and they didn't hurt anyone and they added to the world, it just is so hard to understand."
"On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I express our utmost condolences to Chris' family, friends and coworkers. He was a kind man who treated everyone with dignity and respect," wrote Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Gary Snellings in a statement.
"Our hearts go out to Virginia Beach at this time of unimaginable tragedy and we will support them as they move towards healing and peace," Snellings added.
Rapp also played the bagpipes with the band Tidewater Pipes & Drums.
"Chris was reserved but very friendly, quietly engaging members one-on-one after our weekly practices," band manager Jim Roberts said in a statement.
The news of Rapp's passing had rattled the Stafford community. Police presence has been increased at the Stafford County Government Center through the end of the week to help people feel more secure, officials said.
On Monday, the government also offered counseling services for County employees, said Howell.
A memorial for Rapp will be held at Stafford's Armed Services Memorial on Wednesday at 10 a.m. to remember him and recognize the other 11 victims.
Speakers will include Snellings, the police chaplin, and people who knew Rapp well, said Howell.