Paul C. Lapping

With broken hearts we announce Paul Cecil Lapping, 82, of Highland Park, Illinois died on Monday, January 17, 2022. Paul is survived by his wife of 57 years, Louise (née Vick); his daughters Catherine, Beth (Eliot) Schencker, and the late Jennifer; his grandchildren Sadie, Ari, Noah, and Hugo. Paul was the son of the late Hilda and Meyer Lapping; brother to the late Bennett and the late Harvey (Sheila) Wexler; Brother-in-law to Nicholas (Lois) Vick; uncle, cousin, colleague and friend.

Our Papa, Dad, Sweetie, Little Pauly, Uncle Pete, PC Lap, Big Deer, Face Man lived every minute as a devoted family man, a son, a brother. He was proud to be a Chicago fan, a Sullivan Alum, a 60’50 University of Illinois Sammie and a distinguished serviceman. Always an optimist and a beacon of light, Paul was one of the good ones, a friend for life. While 52 the Flying Jew has left the field, we take comfort knowing his brothers are there to coach.

Generous and kind, Paul impacted countless lives. It didn’t matter who you were, what language you spoke, how much money you had, or if you worked in the front or the back of the house. He wanted to know more about you and your family. He believed in people. He had a way of making you feel like you wanted to make him proud. He made you believe in yourself too.

Paul lived every day to the fullest. Far from retirement, Paul talked to his customers until the day before he died. Every kitchen in the city knew him as Buena Carne, the Meat Man. Creating his triple secret formula and his professional relationships meant everything. An entrepreneur and leader in the field, there isn’t a person from the old Fulton Market days who didn’t come to him for advice, many still friends for over 60 years.

Paul served on the board of Glenkirk for the betterment of disabled peoples’ rights. He was deeply committed to doing everything he could to help his daughter Jennifer live a joyful and comfortable life. We know Jenny is waiting for him with open arms ready for a Sunday ride. The love shared between Paul and Jenny is an example to us all. Never was a sweeter and more gentle man.

Proud of his Jewish roots, Paul was elated to fulfill his lifelong dream of visiting Israel in 2011. It was his wish to one day see Israel again through his grandchildren’s eyes. Looking to the future without Covid and to honor these wishes, donations can be made to Birthright Israel Foundation.

And as one final request, please take someone you love for a pastrami sandwich, a kosher dog or just a cup of coffee. And just like Paul would do, tell them, “I am proud of you.” Our whole family will spend the rest of our lives doing our best to make him proud of us too.

Our egg rolls will be extra salty this Sunday. Taken before his time, our world, now a little less special, is changed forever. Funeral services will be private in accordance with Covid guidelines. We hope to gather together again in the Spring to memorialize and celebrate Paul’s remarkable life.