Ron Rapp: Honouring a respected leader in our industry

It is with great sadness that the Homebuilders Association Vancouver (HAVAN) announce the passing of Ron Rapp on July 18, 2024, following a 10-month battle with aggressive Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Ron was a visionary leader, widely recognized across Canada for his experience, reputation and kindness. As a member and later CEO of HAVAN, he was frequently asked to participate on boards, committees, panels and workshops at regional, provincial and national levels, including with the Canadian Homebuilders Association and other key stakeholder organizations.

With more than 45 years in the construction and real estate development industry, Ron began his career in Ontario, before moving west to Alberta and then British Columbia. Before his time at HAVAN, he served for 15 years as vice-president of construction at Morningstar Homes, overseeing the planning, design, delivery and customer service for more than 10,000 homes.

Ron’s expertise spanned a wide range of housing, including low- and high-rise multi-residential, seniors’ housing, long-term care facilities, subsidized housing and industrial and commercial projects. His comprehensive experience encompassed land acquisition, planning and development, product design, site planning, sales and marketing, construction and after-sales service.

As a long-standing member and former board member with HAVAN, Ron took on the role of CEO in 2020. He was committed to working closely with local industry and municipalities, alongside CHBA BC and CHBA National, to advocate for all levels of government to collaborate in addressing the housing industry’s challenges, such as zoning restrictions, density limits and NIMBYism.

Respected by peers, staff, members, media and government alike, Ron’s leadership was characterized by his ability to inspire and unite. His strategic vision, relentless passion, and deep-seated belief in the power of collaboration were instrumental in elevating the homebuilding industry’s profile among elected officials and policymakers. Under his guidance, HAVAN reached new heights and fostered a community built on integrity, innovation and excellence.

Ron’s contributions are woven into the fabric of our industry’s history, and his influence endures, reminding us of the profound difference one leader can make. His memory will always be cherished, and his impact remembered with great respect.

During his time in the VGH Bone Marrow Transplant ward, Ron received exceptional care from the dedicated nurses and physicians. Surrounded by the love and support of his partner Jill, family and friends, he was able to find comfort even during the most challenging times. It was his wish to help others undergoing similar treatment by providing items to make their journey more comfortable, such as noise-cancelling earplugs, arm sleeves for showering, pajamas, slippers, games, gift cards for phone apps and long-distance phone cards for those confined to bed.

In honour of Ron’s legacy, donations can be made to support Patient Comfort within the Leukemia & BMT Program through the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. https://join.vghfoundation.ca/fundraiser/5715864