With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Gabriel Whyee Salapeh on October 11, 2021. He was the son of the late Willie and Changgie (Lawah) Salapeh. Born on January 4th, 1946 in Zekepa, Nimba County, Liberia, West Africa, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1973. Gabriel attended and graduated from the University of Minnesota, where he met his wife, Leola. He moved his family to Liberia in 1980, where they lived until 1991. While there, he worked for National Housing Authority. Gabriel returned to the US with his family and resided in Lancaster, PA. He was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church. Gabriel worked for the School District of Lancaster for 23 years and Redwood Group Home for 25 years.
Gabriel served as President of the Liberian Student Association of Minneapolis, Minnesota, President of Nimba Association of USA, and President of LIFSCEPA (Liberians and Friends in South Central Pennsylvania).
Gabriel is survived by his wife of 46 years, Leola Salapeh, two daughters, Tyra of Norcross, GA and Changgie of Lancaster, PA, and one son, Eric of Lancaster, PA, and many foster children; two sisters, Wachee Salapeh and Alice Salapeh of Liberia. He leaves behind 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. He and his wife were foster parents for 22 years. He is preceded in death by his brother, Kendrick Salapeh, and sister, Kornawasee Salapeh of Liberia.
He loved soccer, football, and being in the company of family and friends. He was a very kind man, dedicated husband, loving father, and a die-hard Minnesota Vikings fan.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Family and friends are invited to attend the viewing at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 701 N. Lime St., Lancaster, PA 17602, on Saturday, October 23rd, 2021 from 9am-11am, followed by the funeral service. Interment at Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, 11 Greenfield Rd., Lancaster, PA 17602. Repass will follow at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Masks are required.
JACOB SAYE
From the Saye family, please accept our sincere condolence for the passing of brother Gabriel.
BENNIE & ALLIETTE PERKINS
Leola and family, have our deepest sympathy. May the God of our fathers continue to grant him REST.
Judy Greenfield
To our dear sister, Leola , may you find peace in the believe that your husband is resting in peace with his maker. Know that walter and I share your pain of the lost you have endured. You did your best. Thanks for being a caring wife . May God grant you peace.
Magdalene Hanson
My deepest condolences to Leola and family. Gabriel and I worked together at the National Housing Authority, Monrovia, Liberia for many years until the civil war broke out. He was a dedicated worker, friend and a family man. We kept in touch speaking often. Praying for you God’s comfort, peace and strength during this time of your grief. May he rest in perfect peace.
Magdalene Hanson
Precious and Kaydee
Our condolences to the entire family. May the Lord Almighty comfort you.
Ruth Kollah
It’s because of uncle Gabriel God first I am in the United States today. I remember when I won the DV and everyone had turned my mom down, uncle Gabriel was her only hope and without hesitation, he to my mom, Anna I will help you . Four days to my interview my uncle sent my affidavit and I came to United States. He was a kind man and loves family. I pray that God will comfort his beautiful wife and his children. Rest In Peace uncle Gabriel.
MICHELLE STUCK
We were so sorry to hear this very sad news. Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to you all.
Michelle and Mark
(Friends of Tyra)
Charmaine Kyles
Tyra,
My sincerest condolences go out to you and your family. I pray for strength and peace for your mother and siblings during this time.
Ramona Rivera Navedo
Salaph family,
He was a loving man. Always had a happy greating for me ( Hi Mrs Santigo) (as he knew me then )wherever we saw each other. Worked in SDOL with him for many years. May God grant you peace and strength.
Joel and Danielle Grey
Tyra and the Salapeh Family,
We wish strength and peace to you during this difficult time. We are praying for you and wish you comfort during this time or mourning. We are here if you need anything at all. We love you!
Lareca
Tyra and family,
Sending prayers and condolences. May God give you strength and peace.
Love,
Reca
Regina Wheat
I am deeply saddened to hear of Gabriel’s passing. He was always kind and respectful. May God comfort the family during this difficult time. Leola and Tyra, I am a phone call away. Love you.
Sandra VanDusen
Dear Leola,
I was so surprised and saddened to read of the death of your beloved husband. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Bonnie Runkle
Dear Tyra,
I wanted to offer my condolences to you and your family for the loss of your father. I’ve thought of you often with hopes that your life and career are rewarding and successful.
Sincere sympathy, Bonnie Runkle
Oliver Saye
My sincere condolences to the family. What a sweet and generous man he was. Our fellow Liberian made us proud. RIP
Jacqueline Moore, East Regional Director of Alpha Gamma Xi Military Sorority
Salapeh Family,
With a bowed head and sadden heart, I send my condolences and prayers. May God grant you peace and comfort during your time of grieve.
Jacqueline Moore