Donna W. Lapano

Donna W. Lapano, 64, of Harrisburg died Saturday, August 17, 2024 at home surrounded by her family. Donna will be remembered as one of those rare individuals who could not say anything bad about anyone. Her good nature and positive attitude made everyone want to spend time with her. She had an unwavering faith in God and never questioned the plans he had for her. 

She retired as Executive Assistant to the Commissioners at the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. She started her career at Herre Brothers Construction in Harrisburg and later was an Executive Assistant to the Secretary of State under the Casey and Thornburgh administrations. She was a graduate of Carlisle High School and Shippensburg University where she enjoyed her experience as a Majorette. At Shippensburg, she joined Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority developing lifelong friendships. She was a member of Saint Catherine Laboure Parish in Harrisburg.

She loved animals, the beach, evenings in front of the fireplace with family in Somerset, shopping, and being with her friends, especially her college roommates. She also enjoyed watching her daughter play softball from t-ball through college. She became known as “Mama L” by all of Caroline’s friends and teammates because she treated them all like her bonus children. 

Among her many passions foremost was taking care of her family, including her furry family, Eve, Jack, Odie, Lulu, Sassy, and Annie. She enjoyed baking and took satisfaction in knowing that her husband often complained she was making him plump. 

She was born January 30, 1960 in Carlisle to the late Robert J. and Velva (Hefflefinger) Weibley. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Robert J. Weibley.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph A. Lapano; daughter, Caroline L. Blanden (Zach) of Quakertown; sister Deborah Piper (William) of Carlisle; and nieces and nephews, Nicole, Jared, Brekan, Jason, Jessi, Nicki, David, and Michelle.

Visitation will be from 10am until Mass of Christian Burial at 11am Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at Saint Catherine Laboure Parish, 4000 Derry Street, Harrisburg. Committal will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, West Hanover Twp. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Last Chance Ranch Animal Rescue, 9 Beck Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951, https://www.lastchanceranch.org/