David Laspa

David J. "Dave" Laspa, age 72, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital with his beloved wife by his side.

Dave was born on February 5, 1952, in Ironwood, MI, to Nestor and Aili (Korpela) Laspa. He graduated from Hurley High School in 1970 and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1974 with a degree in Civil Engineering. Dave married Sandy on August 21, 1976.
Dave's engineering career spanned 37 years with the City of Wisconsin Rapids. He worked tirelessly over the years to perfect the timing of the city's traffic signals. After retirement, he continued to serve the city on various committees.

Dave was an avid lover of history, trains, the outdoors, and spending time with his kids and grandkids. He participated in Civil War reenactments across the country at several major battlefields. He was a Yooper and proud of his Finnish heritage, embodying the Finnish phrase Sisu, meaning strength and determination, to his very last days.

Whether it was camping with family or serving his church, Dave loved to tell stories, make people laugh, and entertain you with useless facts. He was a humble and hard-working husband and father who will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Dave is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sandra; sons, Ryan Laspa and Kyle Laspa; daughter, Jena (Andrew) Cabral; brother, Marvin (Lora) Laspa; brothers-in-law, Glenn (Fernando) Schellinger and Leo (Karen) Schellinger; grandchildren, Harrison, Sawyer, Addison, and Grace; and nephews, Erick (Destiny) Laspa and Kevin Laspa.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; J. Nestor and Aili (Korpela) Laspa; and aunt, Sylvia Laspa.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at First English Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Pastor Cheryl Davis will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at the church. Burial will take place at a later date.