Donald Lee Lape

Donald Lee “Donnie” Lape, 72 of Derry, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 2, 1950 in Baggaley. He was a graduate from Derry Area High School Class of 1968 and Greensburg Institute of Technology. He was a son of late Russell and Edna (Menzie) Lape. Don retired from Saint-Gobain after 46 years and drove school bus part time for Greater Latrobe School District. He served his country in the Army 101st Airborne Unit and was a Vietnam Veteran. He’s a life member of the Kingston Veterans and Sportsman Club and the Greek Club of Loyalhanna. He was also a member of American Legion Post 982 (VFW) of Hostetter. Don enjoyed golfing, hunting, spending time with his grandkids and listening to the Rolling Stones while drinking Rolling Rock. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR Racing and was an avid Pittsburgh Penguin and Steeler Fan. Don is survived by his caring wife of 45 years, Edith Lape (Derry); his daughter Kimberly DeCario (Vince) of New Derry; his loving grandchildren Rocco, Aviana, Livia, and Vincenzo; sister Lois Dunlap; sister-in-law Susie Androstic; sister-in law Anita Balik (Rick); brother-in-law Ricky Derry; nephew Danny Dunlap Jr., several other nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and friends. He was proceeded in death by brothers Robert Lape, Dean Lape and Russell Lape Jr.; mother-in-law Louise A. Derry; brother-in-law Roy Dunlap; sister-in-law Rhonda Derry; best friend Joe Vachal and his beloved dog Bella. The family would like to thank the dedicated caretakers from Excela Health (Tina and Dawn) and the Hospice Company ProMedica (Heartland), Charlotte (Nurse), Lisa (Aide), Shari (Social Worker), and all other staff. Family will receive friends for Don’s Life Celebration Sunday 1-4PM May 22, 2022 in the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. The Latrobe-Derry Veterans Honor Guard will conduct Military Honors 3:45PM in the funeral home. A funeral service will follow 4PM in the funeral home with the Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as officiant. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Action for Animals Humane Society, 386 RT 217, Latrobe, PA 15650. Online condolences may be made to www.merlinfuneralhome.com.

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