William Roxas Lapena, 69, of Cherry Hill, NJ, passed away on Saturday, June 20, from complications of diabetes.

He leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Paz; his mother, Ester Lapena, and sisters Imelda Espiritu and her husband Dan, of Virginia Beach, VA, and Tessie Nerone and husband Mike, of Farmville, VA. Willie also leaves behind his nephews and niece, who were like his own children, as well as their families; John and daughter, Madison; Mike and Joy and their children, Nathaniel, Aiden and Dominic; Kat and Steve and their children Andrew, Adam, and Charlotte; and Chris and Alexis and their sons, Trevon and Brendon.  He also leaves behind many, many friends and loved ones.

Willie was born in Manila, Philippines, where he grew up and developed a passion for basketball.  He went on to Manila Central University, where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering.  Willie emigrated to the U.S. in the 1970's and landed a job at a prestigious engineering firm in New York City.  He eventually made his way to Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where he retired from the State of New Jersey's Department of Transportation. An entrepreneur at heart, he also started and ran a successful contracting business and employed many community members who were in need of jobs.

His love for life and loyalty to friends will be remembered by all whom were fortunate to have met him. A devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Willie's presence will be missed tremendously.  Friends and family will remember him fondly for his beer stein and car collections, trips to Atlantic City, his sense of humor and unending generosity.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday evening from 7:00PM to 9:00PM and Thursday morning from 9:00AM to 10:00AM all at The Catholic Community of Christ Our Light Church, 402 North Kings Highway, Cherry Hill, NJ, 08034. A funeral Mass in celebration of Willie's life will be held on Thursday morning at 10:30AM at The Catholic Community of Christ Our Light Church.