Donald J. Lapenas

ORANGE- Donald John Lapenas, 73, of Orange, MA, passed away on September 10, 2025.

He was born on February 4, 1952, in Athol, MA, to the late John and Leona (Rand) Lapenas.

In his adult life, Donald proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where he received an honorable discharge.

To his friends he was simply “Don”—a man who found joy in the little things. Whether he was casting a fishing line, metal detecting for hidden treasures, picking blueberries on a summer day, or scratching off a lottery ticket with a grin (thinking Gram didn’t notice—though she always did), Don lived life with a quiet appreciation for simple pleasures. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved nature and the peace it brought him.

Family was always at the center of Don’s life. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Leona Lapenas, his wife Linda Lapenas, his brother-in-law Ron Rowe, his granddaughter Ellie Lapenas, and many beloved family members and friends who surely welcomed him home.

He leaves behind his loving sisters, Judy Rowe of Orange, MA, and Debbie and her husband Steve Rowe of Orange, MA; his daughter Heather and her husband Matt Watling of Westfield, MA, along with their children; and his son John Paul and his wife Sara of Waterboro, ME. Don is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

Don’s memory will live on through the love of his family and the many ways he touched the lives of those around him. There are countless others who were part of his journey, each of whom either left an imprint on Don’s life or carry the imprint of his on theirs.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 17th at 10:00 a.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, MA, immediately followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. 

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, remembered for his humor, his warmth, and the quiet strength with which he lived his days while living the simplest of lives. 

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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