Jeff was a great man. Always made people around him feel special. A very humble guy that loved basketball and everything it entailed. I had the pleasure of knowing his wonderful family over the years , either coaching against them or just seeing them at many basketball games. He will truly be missed.

This is a time when words fail to describe the depth and shock of Jeff's sudden passing.

I met Jeff through his parents, Nick and Bev in my time at St. Paul's. Warm, accepting people with a gift for wise advice and counsel.

I saw Jeff at the last regular season Seabears game. Just weeks prior. It was halftime. He came up behind me at the Seabears store and slapped me on the back, and said, " Mr. Light! " We exchanged our banter of " That's all you got?" I congratulated him on the new position as St. Paul's Principal. He grinned with humble excitement and right after that was eager to hear about my kids.

The moment was brief, but meaningful and assured. It was "In the moment" and will carry me forward. In service. I hear you Jeff.

To Leigh-Ann, Nickolas, Hayden, Ashton, mother Bev, Mike, Susie, and Nicole, and the entire Laping family. My the love of God comfort and asswage you, the family and the vast circle of friends that the devotion and example of Jeff will shine eternally.

Brian Light '82

Dear Jeff,
Throughout high school, we shared a homeroom. In many a class you were the suit and tie and shabby boat shoes in the desk ahead of me. We weren't close, so never stayed in touch. Yet I always considered you a friend, and so your passing gives me pause, time to reflect, and reconnect. I thank you for that.
What I remember most is the year you QB'ed our intramural football team. In our second game, on our first offensive play, you received the snap, handed me the ball for a gut run, and Mike B. summarily rattled my cage, lifted be off my feet, and put me flat on my back for a 2-yard loss. From the sound of the tackle, you'd thought he had cracked my spine. I stared at the sky, thanked god for shoulder pads and grass turf, and got up. In the second-down huddle you said, somewhat apologetically, "Well, looks like we won't be going up the middle."
I figure you don't remember that play, or that day, but it was a small James Joyce moment for me. The path to where you're going isn't always straight, even if you can see it -- and in life, you're incredibly lucky if you can, because for most of us, we don't, at least not right away.
We both earned our BEd's at the same university. Our paths crossed in the colleges and cafeterias from time to time, and we chatted. You were a year ahead, dating seriously, and I knew you could see your personal and professional paths clearly. I envied that, but also admired it, because you didn't take it for granted. You never seemed to waver. Maybe you did. But not to me.
Jeff, your leadership will be missed in a world now very much in need of true leadership. But the lessons you've left the many will be cherished and your guidance followed. That I know. And your affable smile, your quiet spirit, and your busted-back boat shoes will be remembered, by me, everytime I visit the chiropractor.

Godspeed in the next life, Jeff Laping. Godspeed.
Dean O.

It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to my high school coach and mentor, Coach Jeff.

Coach Jeff was so much more than a coach to me; he was a true guide who played such an important part in my personal growth and future goals. He had a rare gift of seeing the best in people. He always believed in me, kept me motivated, and taught me how to stand tall with confidence. Because of his deep care and support, I received amazing opportunities that shaped my life path.

Thank you, Coach, for your big heart and endless encouragement. You will always be a part of my story, and your impact will stay with me forever. Rest in peace.

I first met Jeff when he and Mike coached the Midget age group regional basketball team (long before club basketball) for St. James district in eighth grade (1993). I truly learned a great deal and first saw his true passion for the game as a coach. Later, we reconnected during his student teaching St . Paul's and as our JV Coach in my gr 10 year where he again continued to help me grow as a player as he was blossoming into a coach at the high school level.

Soon after my graduation, Jeff and Nick rightly started the Alumni basketball tournament and I was able to be a part of the Brar Boys teams that won a few of them resepectively. It was here where I was able to see the great connections through father and son Laping and the intergenerational brotherhood they created within the St.Paul's alumni community through the game of basketball. The best memories of course were after the games were done and win or lose it was always a great time.

As I continued to follow Jeff on social media, I would have loved to have joined one of the pilgrimmages in his fervent devotion to his faith in God. I still hope to do so one day in his memory.

Jeff, it goes without saying that you have truly done your father and family proud. I truly hope all the great impact your life and career has had on so many outshines the immense pain and grief of your loss. Great men are never forgetten and you will live on fondly in all of our minds and hearts throghout the St. Paul's community and beyond, for many years to come. May you rest eternally in the Lord's everlasting light... Amen.

Jeff was a wonderful man, and I am honoured to have gotten to know him. My condolences to the Laping family and all his loved ones.

Jeffrey You are a part of my memory from Team Manitoba 2008 with my son Philip Labongo. You are a wonderful person. You coached, educated, and mentored everyone of our children like your own without discrimination. We parents entrusted you with our children and you embrased every single one of the with love. Thank you Jeffrey. You are no more physically but your memories will live with us. May perpetual light shines on you. Rest peacefully Jeff.

I am deeply saddened to hear of Jeff's passing , he was an extraordinary teacher . I will remember him fondly .

Jeffery, you are a part of my best memories at St. Paul's. I loved your passion for coaching, your love for your family, and your willingness to take on leadership roles to improve things instead of just complaining. I loved sharing the workout room with you on many occasions and our late night chats afler Parents teacher conferences. We will have to wait just a bit longer to get that bike ride together. Rest easy my good friend and may Jesus shower your family and friends with the love that you so genously shared.

Peace forever

In Loving Memory of Jeff Laping — A True “Man for Others”

It is difficult to find words that truly capture the impact Jeff had on our family. He embodied the Jesuit ideal of being a “Man for Others”—not simply in words, but in how he lived, led, coached, mentored and cared for people.

I witnessed this personally through my three sons—Ronald Huletey (2011), Ernestho Huletey (2014), and especially Pete Huletey (2016). Jeff’s influence did not end when they graduated from St. Paul’s. He continued to guide and encourage Pete as he grew into coaching himself.

He gave Pete opportunities that went far beyond mentorship. Right after Pete finished Grade 12, Jeff saw something in him that Pete perhaps didn’t yet see in himself and invited him to join him as an assistant coach with the St. Paul’s AAAA varsity basketball team. Together, they went on to be part of St. Paul’s AAAA provincial championship. Jeff continued to share his coaching playbook, knowledge and experience with Pete, and whenever Pete faced a difficult coaching decision, Jeff was someone he could always turn to for guidance.That kind of mentorship is a gift our family will never forget.

But our memories of Jeff go far beyond the basketball court. Having Pete and Nick play together gave our families so many wonderful moments—the tournaments, road trips, Minneapolis, Grand Forks, hotel gatherings, post-game celebrations, laughter and conversations among parents. Those memories feel even more precious today.

Every interaction I had with Jeff, and with Bev, Leigh-Ann and the family, reflected that same warmth and generosity of spirit.

Jeff, you touched countless lives as an educator, coach, mentor, husband, father, son, friend and leader. You didn’t simply teach young men what it meant to be “Men for Others”—you showed them how to live it.

Gone far too soon, but what you planted in others will continue to grow for generations. Perhaps heaven simply needed another good man among the angels.

Our family will forever be grateful that our paths crossed.

Rest peacefully, Jeff. Your work here mattered. Your legacy lives on, and you will be deeply missed. ❤️🙏🏽

It's heart breaking to see you go too soon. You are not just a coach or mentor for my son Marc. You treated him like family and I will be forever grateful. You inspired him on and off the court. Gave him the best experience! Thank you for the trust and believing he can do more. You made an impact and left a legacy that will remain forever. Rest in peace coach Jeff! 🙏🙏🙏

Our condolences on the passing of Jeff. We will always remember the positive impact he had as a teacher to our boys, especially Tyler.. HIs kindness, fairness, dedication, and commitment to the St. Paul's community and students made a lasting difference in so many students lives. Our family's thoughts and prayers are with his family. Man for others!

My condolences go out to the family and friends. Mr. Laping was a grand component of our school and I am uncertain how it will go on without his presence. Rest in peace sir.

Jeff's legacy will forever live in St. Paul's High School, on many courts, in many hearts. As he carried his father's heart and soul in what he brought to the world, so will Jeff's values, successes, and character carry on. Our hearts are breaking upon this tremendous loss to his family, friends and students and his many communities. We were all blessed to have known him.

Sincere condolances to Susie, Mike, Nicole and Beverly, along with the rest of the Laping family. Our heart and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I didn't know Jeff personally though was lucky enough to hear amazing stories from mutual friends and with Susie while growing up in St.James. Hugs to all of you,

I've known Jeff since he was a baby. I held him in my arms as his dad coached basketball. I knew him as a student and then as a colleague. He was a remarkable man. His accomplishments are extensive. I admired his sense of humour and the way he related to his students. I will miss him very much.

We are deeply saddened to learn of Jeff's untimely passing. From his obituary it is evident that Jeff was highly accomplished and excelled as a teacher and coach. Our thoughts are with his wife Leigh-Ann and children, his mother Bev and the rest of his family. May his soul

rest in peace.

We are heartbroken to hear about Jeff. I grew up with Nicole and Jeff was always part of those memories . He was always such a kind responsible and genuine person , someone that seemed to always do everything right . As an adult I believe he remained that same wonderful person . It's so clear what a beautiful family he created and the tremendous impact he had on those around him . Becoming a pillar at St Paul's high school is a testament of the kind of person he was and all the lives he touched . Our deepest condolences to the entire Laping family. May you find comfort in the beautiful memories you shared with Jeff , and in knowing he's now walking peacefully along that beach with Mr. Nick Laping . Keeping all of you in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time , may the memories of Jeff forever be a blessing .

Much love Katherine , Cheung , Connie

Jeff was a model of giving, truly 'a man for others', learned from St. Paul's, our Jesuits, his colleagues, his students, and from his Mom, Dad, and family with the Laping tradition of giving! Rest in Peace now Jeff, your work here is done. May perpetual light shine upon you. Amen.

An incredible human being...a pure soul His patience, care and empathy for kids was memorable. A born teacher.

Jeff had one of the best laughs in the business. Forever, one of my most favourite colleagues. Sincerest sympathies to family and friends. Indeed, my heart is full of grief yet so comforted knowing the scope of his impact to so many. Grateful to have known you, Jeff.

We were at a basketball tournament in the U.S. back in the early days when I got the nickname 'Steph'. Parents and kids were enjoying time around the pool. I was chatting with Bev. I kept hearing this guy calling out for someone named 'Steph'. 'Steph!' 'Hey Steph!' but I wasn't paying attention because I'm Sheila and I was having a lovely conversation with Bev.  Jeff watched this go on a while, clearly finding it amusing. I finally looked up to see Jeff loudly explaining to Don O'Hara that he had the wrong 'Steph'. We all had a good laugh. From that day forward Jeff and Leigh-Ann most always called me Steph. That was my party name. Sheila was reserved for when I was serious or irritated. Jeff would know by how I was talking or the story I was telling whether Sheila or Steph was present. Sometimes they both showed up. I called Leigh-Ann 'L. A.' because that was her party name and because her mad shopping skills are off the chart, like a fancy person from L.A .

Jeff's passing seems impossible, unimaginable, and is just so sad.  It is difficult to reconcile that such a good and authentic, sometimes feisty, discerning, happy human has left our earthly world.  Basil and I offer our most sincere condolences to Leigh-Ann, Nick, Hayden, Ashton, Bev, Nicole, Mike and Susie.

I never knew Jeffery but from his obituary, there is no doubt in my mind that we were truly blessed to have him as a student, teacher, coach, and principal at St. Paul's High School. Thank you!

I will offer Mass for him, his mother, Leigh-Ann and all the family September 1st.

With much compassion, gratitude, daily prayers, and God's Blessing+,

I like my brother grew up with the Laping family. Mike and I are the same age. But all at one point went to school together, Arthur oliver. As we all grew up. Every one kinda goes in different directions. But one thing about fb. It does keep you intouch. When I first herd the news that jeff had beome principal. I actually reached out to my brother. To share the awsome news. I have far to many memories to share. We loved The pool parties the Lapings had even throwing a birhday party for one of the teachers at Arthur Oliver. To this day my mum and Mrs Laping stay close friends. In wich is wondful. they recently went to the lake a few weekends back. And she spoke about how proud she was of Jeff. The utter shock. When I herd about Jeffs passing. When I think of the amount of peoples lives he touche'd To nicole suzie Mike. Mrs Laping. And to Jeff's wife and children. I am so deeply sorry. I hope his memory. always lives on.

Jeff and I grew up togethe, breathing around the neighbourhood on our bikes, playing road hockey and I guess just being kids. We went to school together from elementary at Arthur Oliver to graduation at St Paul's, and like so many do, we drifted apart during high school and eventually lost touch.

Jeff was one of the reasons I attended St Paul's, and I never thought to tell him how important that would turn out to be in my life. My dad passed away at the beginning of our Grade 10 year, and without the support and the sense of community I found during those years, I honestly don't know where I would have ended up. Reading about the impact Jeff had on so many young people, I can't help but think how fitting that is. Someone who, probably without even realizing it, helped put me on the right track went on to spend his life doing the same for so many others.

When I heard that Jeff had been appointed principal, I called and left him a congratulatory voicemail. He called me back within minute, and after all those years, we picked up the conversation as if we had never lost touch. I will never forget that.

My sincere condolences to Bev, Nicole, Mike, Susie, Jeff's family and everyone who loved him.

Deepest condolences to the Laping family. It was truly a blessing to have known Jeff.

Condolences to Jeff's family, it is with great sadness I must say goodbye to a former teacher. I had the opportunity of having Jeff as my English teacher about 25 years ago.. Jeff was kind, patient and he challenged us on our thoughts and what it means to be a man for others-of which he was an excellent role model. Jeff was a devoted volunteer to the basketball community at St. Paul's-everyone knew how much he cared about it and how he wanted to make it a success. Anyone who gives their time so selflessly deserves immense praise and recognition. You will be missed Mr. Laping. God bless.

I first met Jeff when he was about 8 years old. I was playing for the Manitoba Bisons football team at the time, and his dad, Nick, was one of our assistant coaches. Jeff would occasionally come to practice with his dad, and I would take some time to play catch with him.

Over the years, I would see the Laping family at different functions and occasions and watch as the kids grew up. I remember how Jeff became so involved in coaching basketball. Eventually, he was one of the coaches at a couple of summer camps that my sons attended. I remember thinking, “What a small world,” but it was also pretty special to see those connections come full circle.

As the years went by and I became involved in coaching football and basketball myself, our paths crossed on several different occasions. It was always great to hear about how well Jeff was doing—as a coach, as an educator, and most importantly, as a dad and family man.

The last time I saw Jeff was at a Sea Bears basketball game. We never know when it will be the last time we see someone, and hearing this news was such a shock.

I can’t begin to imagine what this has been like for you, Bev, or for your family. I just want you to know how truly sorry I am for your loss. My sincere and deepest condolences to you and your entire family. Jeff touched many lives over the years, and I feel very fortunate to have known him and to have had our paths cross so many times throughout our lives.

my deepest sympathies. Jeff was a wonderful Man. I Coached against Jeff, worked with him on the MB Basketball Coaches Association and other high school basketball ventures. He was always, ALWAYS a pleasure to work with. His positive attitude and willingness to "what is best" is what I remember the most about him. A wonderful Coach, A wonderful family man and most importantly a wonderful person. He will be dearly missed. I would like to share this one memory of Jeff and his Mom. A number of years ago, when I was Coaching the Daniel McIntyre Maroons boys basketball team, we won our first provicincial round game, meaning we had to play his St. Paul's Crusaders the next day. A few hours, before the game, Jeff's mom came up to me and said, "I don't know who to cheer for. I am a Daniel McIntyre grad and I enjoyed watching your boys play in the first game, but I know I know that I should cheer for my son". I shared this with Jeff. Jeff laughed and jokingly said back, "she'll probably cheer for her ole' Daniel McIntyre school". We laughed. Jeff's team beat us in an excellent game.

I still remember when coach Laping organized a Pokémon Go Raid Battle in the Sacremento Airport with us while we waited for our flight home after our tournament In California. The bond he had with his players was truly remarkable. He showed his players true compassion and love off the court which made playing high stress games for him on the court so much easier. He just had a special way of getting the best and maximum effort out of his guys night in and night out. Win or loss, he graciously held his chin up with humility and pride. Jeff never failed to recognize how proud he was of his guys no matter the outcome of a game. He is the true definition of a leader and shaped the character of so many young men. Sending my love to the entire Laping family.

when the news of Jeff's passing first surfaced, a number of his '89 classmates immediately got on a group text to discuss why, and how, and also what Jeff meant to us and others. lots of feelings and connections. he was truly on the great people to have met and known. He was a pure one. my heart goes out to his family. stay strong.

Jeff played a huge role in my and my brothers time at St.paul's. I wish had the words to describe his impact.

Mr. Laping, rest in peace.

An absolute legend. Staying involved with the alumni association over the last ten years meant I would often run into Jeff in the hallways before a meeting. I genuinely appreciated those opportunities to get to know Jeff on a different level after being his student. H kindness and spirit of generosity were and will continue to be an inspiration to me.

Thanks for all of the lessons Jeff.

It is so very sad for our whole community to lose a man who contributed so greatly for the benefit of others. He is a wonderful example of how to live a life that matters. May the family and others be comforted in knowing he has completed his work on earth and has been called to a better place. With love, Gregg and Mary Hanson

Jeff was a classmate and a friend. From the time we first met in 9th grade, his wisdom and kindness were already evident, as were his humour and generosity. Through the challenges and uncertainties of our teenage years and early adulthood, Jeff was a steady presence—a source of reassurance, warmth, and serenity. When we reconnected over the past few years, I was struck by how those same qualities remained so much a part of him. I felt this especially when he took the time to give me a tour of St. Paul’s during my first visit in more than 20 years. It was moving to see the care and dedication he brought to the school and its students, and the pride he took in giving back to a place that had meant so much to him. We remained in touch, and I promised Jeff that I would return soon to visit him in his new role as Principal. I intend to keep that promise, though my heart aches knowing that I will not be able to share that visit with him as I had imagined.

To Jeff’s family, I extend my deepest condolences and affection. I hope you can find some comfort in knowing how deeply he was valued, and how enduring an impression his kindness, generosity, and quiet strength left on those fortunate enough to know him.

May the serenity that Jeff showed me when we were students at St. Paul’s, and that he still carried with him all these years later, now accompany you and bring you some measure of peace in your grief.

A.M.D.G.

Very sad loss of a wonderful eductator and person. Condolences to the family.

Truly one of the good ones, RIP my good man. You will be loved and missed by so many!

Jeff was a cornerstone of SPHS. I send my deepest sympathy to his family, friends and school community.

I attended my first Tragically Hip concert with you, we started our teaching careers together and you even held my hand through the chaos at the Pan Am Games. We went our separate ways in teaching but we never forgot about each other. I will never forget the look on your face when I walked through the door at your Halloween costume party. It truly was a record scratch moment 😂. Your smile, kindness and that laugh oh my that laugh will be missed but never forgotten! I will see you on the other side, brother!

Sending all of our love and support to the Laping Family❤️

He taught both my brother and I at St.Paul's High School almost 25 years ago. I was excited for my son to learn from his as well this year. He was an excellent teacher, a kind and patient man, and example for legions of boys and men on what it meant to be a man for others. He will be a fixture in my daily prayers. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. God bless and console his family, colleagues and many friends.

A huge loss to his family and to the community. May he rest in eternal peace.

Jeff Laping was always calm under pressure, very confident, a true man for others, very considerate, respectful, extremely caring, an excellent listener, and a human being. He just make you feel like you belong. Gone too soon. He will be missed dearly by all, including my household. May his soul rest in perfect peace!!!

An extraordinary Man for Others. Sending heartfelt condolences to the Laping family. Jeff's memory as our son's coach and mentor will be with us forever.

What a beautiful remembrance. Sending love and condolences to Bev, Liegh-Ann, and all those who loved Jeff. He was one-of-a-kind.

Wonderful friend and Jesuit educator. Thanks for the many laughs and memories. May you rest in the eternal peace of Christ and be reunited with your hero,mentor and Dad, Nick. AMDG

I have been blessed to have known Jeff since he as a little boy and to the incredible man he became.

Jeff will be much missed. Love and condolences to Leigh Ann and the Laping family (ies).. Pinger!

The impact you've left behind is immeasurable, regardless of the relatively short time we worked together. Maya Angelou's famous quote, "People will forget what you did, people will forget what you said, but people will never forget how you made them feel," perfectly encapsulates the effect you have had on everyone you worked with, coached, and taught.

Thank you for everything you have shared, contributed, and inspired. Your kindness, guidance, and positive influence will never be forgotten. Praying for your eternal peace and happiness.

my condolences to Jeff's loving family and friends. These memories you shared help me to appreciate this wonderful man. Blessings to all.

My heartfelt condolences to Jeff's family and to his mother Bev.

A very special person. Truly a Man for Others.

My condolences go out to the Laping family. Jeff I will never forget our time coaching together at Oak Park. Especially our trip with your dad to Notre Dame.

A wonderful person that will be immensely missed.