Constance Connie Lapier
October 15, 1932 - January 2, 2022
On January 2, 2022, Constance ‘Connie’ Lapier, 89, passed away peacefully. Connie was born on October 15, 1932, to Clyde Lapier and Winnifred Todd. As a child Connie was bright, inquisitive, caring and interested in learning. These traits were reflected throughout her life.
Connie was especially interested in studying dentistry, dental hygiene and nursing. After attending Bryman College Connie became a nurse, specializing in private patient nursing. Connie said that she retired at least three times, and served as a nurse for 59 years. Her patients were thankful for the personal nursing she provided.
Connie valued her friends. She had beautiful handwriting and regularly corresponded with generations of friends and families, sending birthday and holiday cards, and thoughtful notes. Connie’s correspondence and friendships were important to her. Connie’s coffee pot was on every morning and her door was unlocked. Connie always had time for a visit at her table.
After marrying and raising four daughters in California, Connie moved to Carson City, Nevada, in 1980, where she continued nursing private patients. She soon became a real Nevadan, making friendships and pursuing new interests that would last a lifetime.
Connie’s deep respect for military men and women led her to join and participate in search and rescue missions with Civil Air Patrol. She actively recruited new members, handled personnel matters, served as the Minden squadron’s medical nurse, helped train cadets and earned her ‘flying grandma’ email address. Connie retired from the Minden squadron at the rank of major, but continued to support CAP by displaying a CAP sign on her vehicle and maintaining her membership.
Connie was interested in Nevada history, places and events. She especially enjoyed rocks, birds, dogs, children, music, reading, plants, the American flag, and the colors blue and yellow. Her home was like a library. Connie continued to learn and read throughout her life, and at 89 was delighted to get books from Browsers and a subscription to the Smithsonian magazine.
Connie left us our friendship for each other, a positive outlook, and an example of true caring. She rocked red lipstick, black hair, cowboy boots, a ready laugh, and a delight in life itself.
Connie will be missed by her Nevada and CAP ‘family’, her family members, and the countless friends she has made throughout her lifetime. Connie was a true blessing to all who loved and adored her.
Services will be held at Fitzhenry’s Funeral Home on March 25, 2022, at 2 p.m. Donations in Connie’s name may be made to the Minden CAP squadron, the Carson City animal shelter, or the charity of your choice.