Kenneth A. Lapre, 78, of Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. His passing marks the loss of a man whose presence brought great joy to those around him.
Ken faced a rare cancer with remarkable strength and courage, never losing his sense of humor throughout his journey. In 2014, he moved to Virginia to be closer to his grandchildren and share in their lives. He had previously lived in Rhode Island for 58 years.
Born in Warwick, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Armand and Gertrude (Colby) Lapre. He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna (Lombardi) Lapre, and her sons: Brian Criscuolo and his fiancée Laura Kirk, and Matthew Criscuolo and his wife Carla Criscuolo. He also leaves behind his brother, Norman Hurtubise, and sister-in-law, Dorothy Hurtubise. He is predeceased by his brother Joseph Hurtubise, and sister-in-law, Margaret Hurtubise.
Ken was a beloved grandfather to Nicholas Tittle and his fiancée Krystal Hutchens, Lexi Hitt and her husband Randy Hitt, Nathan Criscuolo, and Sam Kirk. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Lance Tittle and Randolph Hitt III.
After graduating, Ken proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era. He later earned Master’s degrees in Microbiology and Parasitology and went on to have a distinguished career as a project manager with IBM, a role that took him around the globe before his retirement.
Ken was an avid Jeopardy! fan and enjoyed watching both college and professional football, especially when surrounded by family. His Family always referred to him as GRANDPA. He and Donna shared a love for travel, experiencing many memorable adventures across the world together. Ken was called “Saint Ken” by the women who Donna worked with because he was the most patient, caring and kind person they knew.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The procession will depart at 9:15 a.m. from Nardolillo Funeral Home, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 1525 Church St., Cranston. Burial with full military honors will follow at St. Ann Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, August 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. https://mdanderson.donordrive.com/campaigns/In-Loving-Memory-of-Ken-Lapre
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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