M. Joseph "Joe" Lapensky

Dear Joan, I am so sorry for your loss. Of all the early mgn. persons for NWA, Mr Lapensky was one I had met & spoke with in the 60's when I came to work as a flt. att. I remembering him telling me he wanted to retire but they needed him a while longer & he took over for Nyrop. Well, Mr Lapensky treated us all with respect, we had parts for the first time ever, he gave us a bonus when we had to work so hard during a UA strike. We felt valued under him. & he really loved finance that was what...

Dear Aunt Joan and family, I was very saddened to hear about Uncle Joe's passing. I have nothing but fond memories of him and of all the good times I had in my childhood at the Lapensky home and on picnics and family gatherings. He accomplished much in his life, not least of which was introducing his sister to my dad. I wish I was there to share the memories. Dan Sullivan

Dear Joan and family,
I join with others in expressing deep gratitude for all that Joe shared with family, friends and colleagues during his long life. He was a valued mentor and supporter during my years at Holy Angels. His wisdom, humor, courage, humility, expertise, spirituality and generosity provided critical leadership for AHA community. His influence set the stage for the school community to face challenges realistically and plan for the future. AHA would not be the school it...

I never had the privilege to meet Mr Lapensky, but I worked for him as a pilot for NWA. He ended the strike in 1978 in an extraordinary way. He recalled all of the pilots who were laid off and gave a $100 bonus to all employees. Both of these were unheard gestures in labor relations at NWA. For the first time in the 10 years I had been with NWA (4 years laid off) I felt like maybe I would have a career instead of a part time job w/ NWA. Mr. Lapensky made many such gestures of good will to the...

To Mike and the Lapensky Family - I'm very sorry to hear about your fathers passing. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts & prayers during this time. May GOD provide you all with strength and courage.

In 1979, Mr. Lapensky, "Joe" as he introduced himself, changed my life! Being unable to get a leave of abscence to attend flight dispatch school out in California, after I had quit, "Joe" gave me my job back, tore up my letter of resignation, provided me with passes back to Minnesota to see my wife, and ultimately appointed me to flight dispatch. He stepped out and made me strong, loyal and dedicated to the very end. God bless you Joe Lapensky, because you are not only a good man, but a...