(1963 – 2024)
Keith Lapuk’s spirit and inspiration live on for all who met him, knew him, or watched him compete in local and national events, including the Special Olympics. The competitive skier and swimmer passed away in March 2024 at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy that is as exceptional as it is motivational, particularly for others with disabilities. Friends and relatives say he radiated joy and wonder wherever he was. When Keith was a youngster, the Special Olympics offered just track and field. But when skiing and swimming were added, he found himself with new sports to try—and conquer. Eventually the list grew to include skiing, swimming, basketball, bowling, bocce and sailing. The Special Olympics were a fundamental part of the entire Lapuk family. Keith’s parents, brother, and two sisters became integrally involved in assisting the organization in many ways, and as a family were inaugural inductees into the Special Olympics Shriver Society. In addition to dozens of other athletic honors, Keith won gold and bronze medals at the 1987 International Special Olympic Games, and gold medals in downhill and giant slalom skiing in the International Winter Games at Smugglers Notch in 1981. The butterfly was Keith’s favorite stroke, with which he excelled in many national competitions. In addition to enjoying when others cheered for him, Keith truly adored cheering on his teammates. He also loved his work at Hartford Hospital and HARC, adored traveling, singing, joking around and asserting his independence.