Monte Ray Lapel

Monte Ray Lapel was born on January 28, 1940, in Denison, Iowa, the son of Raymond and Hazel (Amman) Lapel. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Presbyterian Church in Vail where he had remained a longtime member. After graduating from Ar-We-Va with the Class of 1958, he began farming and assisting with the dozer business alongside his father. 

On September 21, 1958, Monte was united in marriage to Helen Petersen at United Presbyterian Church in Vail. Monte and Helen were blessed with five children: Jerry, Gene, Danny, Todd, and Tracey. They lived in Deloit for a few years before making their home in rural Vail.

Throughout his life, Monte held various jobs. In his free time, Monte indulged in woodworking as a hobby. He had a natural talent for creating beautiful pieces through this craft and found solace in working with wood. One of Monte's greatest joys in life was spending quality time with his family. He cherished their company and created lasting memories with them. 

Monte passed away peacefully on  Thursday, August 24, 2023, at Gracewell-Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison attaining the age of 83 years, 6 months, and 27 days. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Hazel Lapel; his son, Danny Lapel; and daughter-in-law, Lori Lapel.

Monte is survived by his loving wife, Helen Lapel of Vail; daughter, Tracey Lapel and her fiancé Russ Kennebeck of Vail; sons: Jerry Lapel of Wall Lake, Gene Lapel of Amarillo, Texas, and Todd Lapel of Lansing. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as other relatives and friends who meant the world to him.

A visitation to honor Monte's life will take place at the United Presbyterian Church in Vail on Thursday, August 31, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A memorial service will follow at the same location at 2:00 PM. Memorials may be directed to the family.