David Lee La Prise

David Lee La Prise passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 23, 2024 at the age of 64. A native of Westfield, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Lee and Geraldine La Prise (Lutat). David was a long-time resident of Chester County, having raised his family in Exton and most recently residing in Downingtown, where he was a parishioner of Saint Joseph’s and a devout Catholic. 

David was a strong New Englander and attended the University of Maine, where he was a four-year member of Varsity soccer. He exhibited athletic prowess at a young age and went on to become a stand-out athlete in soccer, basketball, and baseball. Often featured in local sports news reporting in his hometown of Westfield, David was given the moniker “Stick LaPrise” due to his height and lanky build. Stick went on to share his athleticism and work ethic with his son John, teaching him invaluable lessons and sharing memories that they both immensely cherished. Always an avid fan, he enjoyed sports most while watching with family and friends and the Boston Red Sox remained his favorite. 

Upon graduating from Maine, David followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and his father Lee and pursued a career in the paper industry. Throughout his exemplary 40-year career in the industry, David fostered mutually respectful relationships with his many colleagues, clients and customers. A colleague, one who considered David a mentor, reflected on his influence saying, “Dave was kind, thoughtful, gentle, trustworthy and all that is right and good in the world.”

David’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted husband to Marie and what they enjoyed, above all else, was spending time with their children and growing family. They always looked forward to their many long drives and vacations throughout New England, most especially, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. David first met Marie while in Philadelphia for business in 1988. They met at the Bourse and married the following year. David was a loving and adoring father to Caroline and John, always encouraging in support of his children’s interests, hobbies and endeavors. He was their number one fan, mentor, hero and truest friend. David was passionate about and present for his children’s games, events, and milestones. He always strove to be the power of a positive example for his family. David was a loving and humble man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of family, homelife and humor. He loved spending time with family at the Jersey Shore, golfing, and the many celebrations where his sense of humor was enjoyed by all. He was happiest sitting amongst his family sharing a meal and a laugh together. 

David was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Doris Beaudette La Prise, sister Louanne La Prise O’Neill and brother-in-law, James Bagnell. David is survived and will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of thirty-five years, Marie Bagnell La Prise, and their two children, Caroline La Prise McGinn (Sean) and son John La Prise (Rebecca). David is also survived by his loving siblings, sister Suzanne DiSessa (Louis), and brothers Tom La Prise (Susan) and Tim La Prise (Maureen); in-laws Jane Ginsberg (Greg), Thomas Bagnell III (Andrea), John Bagnell, Mary Bagnell, and Kathy Finnegan (John). David was a devoted grandfather to his grandson, Thomas McGinn, and was joyfully awaiting the birth of baby La Prise due in June. He is also survived by many adoring nieces and nephews and extended family members, including his beloved dog, Ruby.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend David’s visitation on Thursday May 2, 2024, 9:00 AM-10:45 AM and a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 332 Manor Avenue, Downingtown.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in David’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.