James "Puppy" Mappen

Josephine 'Kleine-Wilfred' Mappen (Wife)

Patrick Mappen (Son)

June Mappen (Daughter)

Margaret Mappen (Sister)

Edith Mappen (Sister)

Violet Mappen (Sister)

Marvin Mappen (Brother) †

Rufus Mappen Jr. (Brother)

## Childhood

Born on August 8, 1992, **James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen** embodies a unique blend of familial warmth and individual character within the Mappen lineage. As the son of Bailey and Rufus Mappen, he grew up amidst the love and support of a tightly-knit family.

The early years of James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen's life were a tapestry woven with the threads of familial love and shared moments. Born on August 8, 1992, he entered a world where the laughter of siblings, the guidance of parents, and the warmth of a close-knit family shaped his formative years.

Growing up as the son of Bailey and Rufus Mappen, Puppy experienced the joys of childhood within the embrace of a supportive and caring environment. Siblings became playmates, and the family home echoed with the sounds of shared laughter and the patter of youthful footsteps.

Childhood for Puppy likely involved the exploration of imagination and the forging of lifelong bonds with his brothers and sisters. The nurturing presence of his parents infused his formative years with a sense of security and belonging, laying the foundation for the person he would become.

These early years, marked by simplicity and the magic of discovery, contributed to the unique spirit that defines Puppy. His childhood was a canvas upon which the vibrant colors of familial love painted a picture of shared joy and the promise of a future filled with warmth and connection.

## Adulthood

James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen embarked on a professional journey that intertwined with family legacy and craftsmanship. Joining forces with his father, Rufus Mappen, and his younger brothers, Puppy became an integral part of the carpentry business his grandfather had founded.

Immersed in the artistry of carpentry, Puppy brought his skills and dedication to a business that held not only professional significance but also deep familial roots. The woodworking craft, passed down through generations, became a shared endeavor that strengthened the bonds between father and sons.

As they worked together, crafting pieces of wood into creations that bore the mark of Mappen craftsmanship, Puppy found fulfillment in contributing to a legacy that went beyond the tangible products they created. The rhythmic sounds of hammers and saws echoed not only the construction of wooden structures but also the continuation of a family tradition.

The carpentry business became more than a profession; it became a testament to the enduring spirit of the Mappen family and their commitment to preserving and enriching the legacy established by generations before them.

The dynamics of the Mappen Carpentry business underwent significant changes in the wake of Theodore 'Roux' Ruxpin Sr.'s passing on September 11, 2012. Rufus 'Ruxpin' Mappen Sr. stepped into the role of leadership, taking over the reins of the family business.

In 2013, recognizing the need for additional expertise, the Mappen Carpentry business made a strategic decision to bring on board Scout 'Knox' Mappen Sr. His prior experience in forestry proved invaluable, adding a new dimension to the team's skill set.

In December 2015, James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen made a pivotal decision to embark on a new chapter in his life. Opting for a different path, he chose to dedicate himself to military service, stepping away from the family carpentry business.

His departure from the business marked a transition for both Puppy and the Mappen Carpentry team. While the family continued to flourish in their woodworking endeavors, Puppy embraced a journey that would see him contribute to a different form of service and embark on a path that held new challenges and opportunities.

As Puppy set forth on his military journey, his decision reflected a commitment to personal growth, a sense of duty, and the pursuit of experiences beyond the familiar confines of the carpentry workshop. The Mappen family, though undergoing change, continued to thrive both in the business and the diverse pursuits chosen by its members.

In pursuit of his dreams of starting a family, James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen made a significant life decision. Despite his earlier dedication to military service, he chose to prioritize his aspirations for family life. In 2018, Puppy made the heartfelt choice to drop out of the military, redirecting his focus toward building a foundation for a family of his own.

This decision reflected Puppy's commitment to aligning his life with his personal values and dreams. Choosing family over a military career showcased his dedication to creating a nurturing and loving environment for those he envisioned as part of his future.

As Puppy shifted gears in his life journey, the support and understanding of the Mappen family likely surrounded him. The choice to prioritize family aspirations underscored the importance of love, connection, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment in Puppy's life.

## Fatherhood

In the pursuit of his own journey, James found love and companionship with Josephine 'Kleine-Wilfred' Mappen, whom he married on February 3, 2020. Their union became a celebration of shared dreams and aspirations, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

As a father, James embraced the joys and responsibilities that come with parenthood. He and Josephine welcomed two cherished additions to their family, Patrick and June Mappen. These little ones became the embodiment of love and the promise of a future filled with shared moments and familial bonds.

Tragically, the Mappen family faced a profound loss with the passing of Josephine 'Kleine-Wilfred' Mappen in 2023. Despite the heartbreak, James's role as a loving father and partner continued to shape the narrative of his family's journey.

James Ronald "Puppy" Mappen's story unfolds as a testament to the complexities of life—marked by love, loss, and the enduring strength found in family ties. His legacy lives on through the lives of his children, a reflection of the indomitable spirit that defines the Mappen lineage.