David Lee Laps

David L. Laps, 78, of Massillon, passed away on April 20, 2024, following an illness at Amherst Meadows Nursing Center.

He was born on May 13, 1945 to the late Frank and Beulah (Harmon) Laps of Massillon, OH.

A graduate of Washington High School Class of 1963 and he received his bachelors degree from Walsh University in 1973, David was an Independent Industrial Representative for various Companies. He truly enjoyed working and instilled this in his sons. He always had a smile on his face with the most contagious laugh. He loved canning peppers, teaching his grandchildren how to do the Polka, and Notre Dame Football. He was fond of clam bakes, golfing, and playing racquetball. He adored spending time with his grandchildren and family. David truly cared for his extended family in Springhaven Circle. He was an usher at Divine Mercy Parish, St. Mary's Catholic Church and had memories of attending Mass and a special connection with his childhood friend, Fr. Edward Gretchko. David was known as the eternal optimist.

David is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sheila (Russell) Laps; their children Erik and Kirk Laps; grandchildren Elyse, Rachel, Nathaniel, Jacob, and Mackenzie Laps; his special sister and Homecoming Queen of 1969, Genevieve (Tom) Hamman; in-laws Ray (Linda) Russell and Brenda Russell; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Ruth Ann (Veryl) Turskey, Frank (Hazel) Laps Jr., Ralph (Peggy) Laps, Donald (Patty) Laps, Eugene (Margaret) Laps, and Eileen (Tom) Zeller.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 2pm-5pm and on Monday, April 29, 2024 from 9:30am-10:30am at the Paquelet Funeral Home, Massillon, Ohio.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, April 29, 2024, 11:00am at the Divine Mercy Parish St. Mary's. Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Research Hospital or The St. Vincent DePaul Food Bank at St. Mary's.

The family would like to thank the staff of Amherst Meadows and Crossroads Hospice for their loving care.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.paquelet.com