Nicholas Stewart Raper, age 86, of Lincoln, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at his home. He was born on March 20, 1939, in Pittsburg, Kansas, the son of Paul James Raper and Lillie Mae (Rader) Raper.
Nicholas graduated in 1958 from North Kansas City High School. Following graduation, he proudly joined the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. After his enlistment ended, he moved to Texas where he enjoyed working as a fishing guide, sharing his love of the outdoors with many. When his parents health started failing he returned to Kansas City to care for them, and went to work for Rigby Printing. In 1999 he retired from Duke Lithographing, Inc, as a Lithographer.
On October 25, 1986, he married Sondra (Sell) Raper. Together they spent their lives enjoying the little things and building a life centered on love, laughter, and companionship. He was a devoted and loving husband.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Theodosia Stegman and her husband Tom, a special cousin Jamie Rader, uncle Delbert Rader and aunt Anna Lee Rader.
He is survived by his wife, Sondra Raper of the home; his stepson, Richard Snider of Calhoun, Missouri; his stepdaughter, Tammy and her husband, John Wurster of San Angelo, Texas; his grandchildren, Nic Townsend of San Angelo Texas, William and Sonie Snider of Calhoun, Missouri and his sister-in-law, Sharon Cooper of Lincoln, Missouri; as well as numerous extended family members and many friends.
Nicholas will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his appreciation for life’s simple joys.
Arrangements for his cremation are under the direction of the Reser Funeral Home, 101 W. Main Street, Warsaw.
