Graydon was born on November 20, 1923 near Carroll, Iowa. He grew up on a farm and graduated from Carroll High School. During World War II, he served as a cadet in the Coast Guard-Merchant Marines. After the war, Graydon enrolled at Iowa State Teachers College (University of Northern Iowa) where he lettered in football and graduated in 1949. Later he continued his education by earning a masters degree in physical education from Northeast Missouri State University (Truman State University) in 1966.

Mr. Lappe began his 36 years of teaching and coaching in the Hartley Community Schools. During his 5 years there his football teams compiled a 27 game winning streak. He established the wrestling program and also coached track. From 1954 – 1965 Mr. Lappe taught physical education and coached football, wrestling, and track in the Perry Community Schools. His last 20 years of teaching and coaching were in the Des Moines Public Schools. In his retirement years Graydon enjoyed family and friends, traveling, reading, playing bridge, gardening and volunteering at the Westside Food Bank.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ila; 3 children, Diane Suntken (Daryl) of Indianola; Stephen of Austin, TX; Mark (Kristi) of Rancho Santa Fe, CA; 5 grandchildren, Stephanie Martin (Tyler) of Maryville, MO, Stacie Suntken of Kansas City, MO, T.J. Suntken at home, Caroline and Marielle Lappe of Rancho Santa Fe, CA; 3 brothers, Clarence (Grace) of Vail; Gregor (Gladys) of Exira; and Wilbur (Dorothy) of Carroll.

There will be no visitation. Memorials may be designated to St. Thomas Aquinas Church. Inurnment for cremains will held at a later date.