Louis Papp

LOUIS PAPP Louis E. (Louie) Papp, 86, passed away Oct. 1, 2008, in Las Vegas. Born Dec. 4, 1921, in Cleveland, Louie was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Louie was a resident of Las Vegas for more than 50 years and was the embodiment of the original "Vegas." His story is one of love and devotion that spans decades, but it is a story that begins with war and peace. This World War II hero served the nation as master sergeant in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1939 to 1945, and was a survivor of the first "wave" of the Omaha Beach D-Day invasion, receiving numerous medals, including the Purple Heart. In all, Louie was involved in a total of two invasions and nine major battles in the European Theater. Louie was an accomplished chef and member of the Culinary Union. He was also a member of the Musicians' Union for more than 50 years and as an accomplished bassist, provided accompaniment for his wife, Mafalda, in the Mafalda Trio, which entertained in virtually every hotel on the Las Vegas Strip and selected locations in Europe. Louie was happiest when helping others, from construction, medical knowledge/lifesaving, entertaining with Mafalda, or just making you feel special, loved and at home. His word was his bond. Louie lived it in his day-to-day interactions. With all he touched, he always followed through. Louie is survived by his wife, Mafalda; daughter, Maria Fihn; son-in-law, Dr. Greg Fihn; two granddaughters, Sarah and Christine Fihn; and his grandson, James Fihn, all of Las Vegas; his sister, Adeline Harris of Strongsville, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews. This true hero with a heart remains in his family's heart forever. A memorial Mass will be said at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Our Lady of Las Vegas Catholic Church, 3050 Alta Drive, Las Vegas. The family requests no flowers.