Lori Lapping

Lori Lapping, 67, née Amstadter, passed away after a life defined by deep devotion to family, a profound love of music, and an enduring warmth that touched everyone around her. She was the adored daughter of Eleanor Pilka (Larry Friedman) and the late Leon Amstadter, beloved wife of Howard Lapping, with whom she shared 43 wonderful years of marriage, and dear step-daughter of Frances Amstadter. Lori was a loving mother to Carna (Don) Shea, Stuart (Amanda) Lapping, and Renee (Kristofer) Knutson, and a cherished grandmother to Ivy, Josephine, and Jack Shea, Devon and Dean Lapping, and Aubrey and Kasey Knutson. She was the much-loved sister of Fred (Debbie) Amstadter and fond step-sister of Marilyn (Roger) Davis, Wendy (Dan) Schneider, and Cari Smyth. Lori was also the proud mother to her four-legged companions Gibson and Derby, and a treasured sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

She married her high school sweetheart and together they built a home filled with music, warmth, and love. A gifted guitarist and singer, Lori found her greatest joy with a guitar in her hands. Through song she comforted, celebrated, worshiped, and connected with others. Her kitchen was another expression of her care; her legendary cookies appeared at family gatherings, celebrations, and simple “just because” moments, always wrapping recipients in sweetness and thoughtfulness. Her signature color was green—any beautiful shade of it would bring a smile to her face.

Above all, Lori loved her family fiercely. She was a devoted wife, proud mother to her three children, and deeply cherished grandmother to her seven grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She leaves behind a legacy of music, devotion, faithfulness, and love. Her family will carry her songs in their hearts, see her in every shade of green, and remember her each time they hear the gentle strum of a guitar or smell cookies baking in the oven. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.