Gary Joseph LaPena's Obituary
Gary LaPena, 86, of Lakewood Ranch, FL, formerly of Maywood, NJ, passed away on June 6th after a battle with cancer.
Gary was born December 16, 1936 in NY, New York to Joseph and Katherine LaPena. He served in the Marines Corps 1954- 1957. He graduated from William Paterson University with a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree. He served as a NJ State Trooper and was also a self-employed business owner until his retirement in 2008.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 170, Rochelle Park, NJ for 28 years. He looked forward to golfing with his buddies. He enjoyed visiting his brother Frank in Las Vegas. He loved being a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather to his large family.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Vincenza, his loving children Gary LaPena, Jr. (Mary), Gail Reilly, Kim Visaggio (Dean), Guy LaPena (Miguelina). His grandchildren, Gary LaPena III, Rachel Gorsky (Jared), Dean Visaggio, Valerie Visaggio, Emily Reilly, Mia Reilly and Jenna Reilly and great grandchildren Nathan Gorsky and Lillian Gorsky.
Services will be at Hennessey Heights Funeral Home, 232 Kipp Ave, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. Visitation will be on Sunday June 11th from 4pm-8pm. Monday, June 12th Family and friends can collect at the funeral home 9:30 am-11:30 am for the service and will proceed to Holy Cross Cemetery in procession.
What’s your fondest memory of Gary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gary?
Share a story where Gary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gary you’ll never forget.
How did Gary make you smile?

