John David Lapp

1969 - 2025

John David Lapp, 56

John David Lapp was born on May 30, 1969 to Wayne and Mary Lapp in Kalispell, Montana. He was the last of five siblings and doted on by his older brother and sisters. When it was discovered that John had Klinefelter's syndrome and would have development disabilities, his family was told he likely would not reach adulthood and would possibly not walk or talk. John did not know any of that so he just faced his challenges living to be 56 years old. He did not know a stranger and was willing to talk to anyone, especially about his family. John had an excellent memory for certain details: directions, birthdays and phone numbers were some of the details he could readily recall. He loved life and each day was a new day with adventures of its own. Somewhere along the way, he came up with his own nickname, Mr. Chicken and frequently insisted on being called by that name.

John lived in several group homes in various places in Montana. His current home managed by Flathead Industries was by far one of his favorite places to live. He also worked for Flathead Industries in the sorting area at their main office. He was always ready to tell a story or a joke and often had to be reminded of the task at hand. He especially loved his weekly trips to Dairy Queen and the frequent outings that he called his "drive and drink" days (a drive to somewhere in the valley and a stop for a Dr. Pepper).

John loved helping his brother-in-law, Dave, at the farm. His willingness to stack wood, help with puppies, or other tasks often exceeded his stamina and then he would be found taking a nap until time to go home. It amazed all of us how he could sit among a litter of puppies and not get clawed and chewed, but he could and even get them all to sleep! Somehow he also learned to replicate several farm animal noises: turkeys and cows were among his best.

Another favorite activity was playing games-he would take on anyone in scrabble, aggravation or other game. If no one was available to play a game with him, he would play one of his many electronic games. John also had a passion for the Denver Broncos. Much of his clothing and room décor reflected his love for the Broncos.

John is survived by his brother Robert Lapp (Julie Islitzer) of San Diego, and sisters, Sandra Heine (Dave) of Kalispell, Nancy Kanagy (Kent) of Albuquerque, and Julie Lapp of Seattle; nieces and nephews, Nick Lapp (Victoria Kong), Colton Lapp, Jordan Lapp, Loren Heine (Keaton), Tyler Heine (Jeanne), Brad Heine (Laura), Jenessa Klinker (Tyler), Will Kanagy (Amy), Molly Kanagy (Giuseppe Deleers-Certo), Sean Porter and Benjamin Porter. He is also survived by seven great-nieces and nephews: Rayna, John, Aralyn, Brynlie, Rhett, Kinsley, and Cru (and he knew almost all of their birthdays). He was pre-deceased by his parents. A service to celebrate John's life will be held at the Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home on Sunday, October 12 at 4:30 pm. Family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to Flathead Industries.