Lawrence A. "Larry" Wapensky, Sr.

Lawrence A. "Larry" Wapensky, Sr., of Arvada, Colorado left this world peacefully on September 27, 2025.

Larry was born on September 11, 1937, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to the late Alexis and Justine (Kotick) Wapensky. His mother was born in Pennsylvania and his father migrated to the United States from the village of Halbow, Galicia, in 1913 and worked as a coal miner and then later as an agent of the Prudential Insurance Company. Larry would often recall that his father said, “On a clear day, you could see the Carpathian Mountains.”

Larry followed in the footsteps of his older brothers and earned his undergraduate degree from Emory University in Georgia. Later, he earned a Master of Science Degree from Denver University.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force from where he achieved the rank of Captain. He was stationed in the Philippines and it was there that he met the love of his life, Barbara. They married in 1964.

In 1970, he became one of the founding members of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Larry worked at the EPA for over three decades where he achieved the position of the Chief of Region 8 Office in Denver, Colorado.

Larry enjoyed traveling and would treat the family to vacations in Europe and road trips across the United States. Upon retirement, he and Barbara travelled to Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Russia, as well as various adventures throughout the United States.

Larry was a devoted husband and caregiver. He was a lifelong learner, teaching himself French, Spanish, calculus, and sociology. He had a zest for life and always stayed up to date with the latest technology and current events. He served as a volunteer on the Arvada Planning Commission, enjoyed running the Bolder Boulder, hiking the Colorado trails (including many of the fourteeners), and attending sporting events. He especially enjoyed cheering on the Broncos.

His greatest joy was his family and spending time with his grandchildren. Larry especially enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s school plays and performances. He was proud of all of their achievements.

Barbara and Larry shared 61 loving years of marriage together. Along with his wife, he is survived by two children, Deborah Wapensky and Lawrence Wapensky, Jr. (Theresa); his two grandchildren, Alexandra Nugent, and Tyler Nugent and many nieces, nephews and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his two older brothers, Basil and John.

His message to his family was, “Thanks for putting up with me and for the love you gave me. I love you. Enjoy life.”

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Celebration of Life on December 3, 2025, 12:00 noon at First United Church of Arvada, 7195 Simms St., Arvada, CO 80004, https://www.arvadaucc.org/