William John Gape's Obituary
William “Bill” Gape, age 83. Beloved husband of the late Jean (nee Gulitz) for over 40 years. Loving father of John Wayne Gape, stepson Bret Bolczak (deceased), as well as many, many, cats. Devoted son of both late Alice and John Gape. Dear brother of Margaret “Margie” Gape and Delores “Bunny” Wells (both deceased), brother-in-law Joe Wells (deceased), brother-in-law Greg Landi and late sister-in-law Carol Landi, with whom he and Jean spent many wonderful moments together, and late half brothers Harry, Jackie and Davie. Loving uncle to Denise Gape Kelley, Christine Gape, and Dawn Wells (deceased), more nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, and friend to many. A proud U.S. Army Veteran of the 82nd Airborne, serving in both Vietnam and Panama, Bill could be heard recounting numerous and colorful stories about his service while enjoying a cold beer at the American Legion and VFW halls with Joe, Bunny and Margie. Bill was hard working, earning a living as both a long-haul and short-haul truck driver and won numerous awards for success and safety. ("My heart is in trucking...but my ‘rear’ is in debt!" was just one of his funny sayings while on his way out of the house). Away from work, Bill loved working out in his home gym, usually after watching his never-miss TV shows such as The Price is Right or a re-run of Walker, Texas Ranger, freely offering an entertaining and informative running commentary throughout the shows. Bill filled his weekends taking meticulous care of his lawn, his various prized sports cars and of course, working on his suntan, usually while enjoying a cigar, cold beer and listening to country music. Like so many other fans, Bill loved to watch the Browns and the Indians, always hopeful for a win, but never surprised by a loss. Whether it was watching a game or another of his usual TV shows at home, Bill was surrounded by the cats to whom he and Jean provided a loving home, especially his best little buddy, Tex, the beautiful blonde cat that was constantly by his side. Bill and Jean looked forward to escaping the winter cold during yearly vacations in beautiful Cancun and even to Hawaii where they soaked up the sun, enjoyed adventures, and made new friends with every visit, bringing home treasured mementos and wonderful memories each time. In addition to their tropical escapes, Bill and Jean often traveled to visit his family in Texas where Bill added to his notable collection of Western boots and attire. Family reunions with his mother, sisters, and the rest of his family were filled with laughter, antics and legendary, or perhaps infamous, shenanigans that will live on in our memories. In retirement, Bill and Jean attended church more frequently and enjoyed fellowship with friends. And they often dined out at their favorite restaurants, Bill often forgetting his reading glasses, but never forgetting to bring home a few leftovers for the cats that were ever impatiently waiting for them to return with treats. Bowling was another hobby that both he and his wife enjoyed and looked forward to the comradery and friendly competition almost every week, with dear friends who loved to share baked goodies and loads of humorous stories. Christine, his proclaimed "favorite niece" from Texas visited often, enjoying spending time at home, activities with numerous friends and road trips to delightful destinations. Even in his last years, staying in a multi-care facility after the passing of his wife, Bill was a caring, humorous, agreeable and helpful man, a favorite of not only the staff but many of his fellow residents.
Bill was loving, funny, friendly, and a family man. He spent his whole life working and loving his family. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. I love you, Uncle Bill.
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