William Emory Rupp

William Emory Rupp aged 94 died on October 12th, 2024 in Asheville, NC, soon after celebrating his birthday with his family and dear friends. Born in Massachusetts, the son of Raphael Emory Rupp and Helen Scott Rupp, Bill grew up in Lyman SC. He served in the Army during the Korean War and married the love of his life, Liz, on his first holiday leave in 1952.

Bill’s electrical engineering degrees from Georgia Tech, NC State, and Johns Hopkins prepared him well for a career designing avionics and communications systems while working for the Bendix Corporation for 27 years. After returning to school to get an MBA at Duke University, he worked for the Duke and then the UNC Business Schools while starting his own engineering consulting company.

Bill and Liz moved to Asheville to be near their daughter Susan and her family, helping to raise two grandsons. They ultimately transitioned to Givens Estates retirement community, where Bill became very active in many groups, including whittling and fixing small electronics. There, he continued his lifelong practice of sharing a well-timed joke, bringing smiles to many.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John Frederick Rupp (Jack), and his wife of 68 years, Elizabeth Smith Rupp (Liz). Bill is survived by his three children and their families: Elizabeth (Betsy) Rupp del Monte and Rick del Monte, John Frederick Rupp and Dan Mason, and Susan Rupp Mims and Dawson Mims, and by grandchildren Becca del Monte (Rafi Sofaer), Billy del Monte (Kavina del Monte), Ricky del Monte, Dawson Emory Mims, Will Mims, and his great-grandson, Isaac Sofaer del Monte as well as many dear friends, including Cora Anne Thomas.

Bill Rupp was an extraordinary man, devoted father, and loving grandfather. He dedicated his life to improving the world, treating everyone he encountered with kindness and respect. He accepted others on their terms and sought to improve life for those around him. Known for his creativity, inventiveness and wit, Bill lived a long, accomplished life marked by love and dedication to his family.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, 789 Merrimon Ave. Asheville, on January 18th at 1:30PM.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.