Steven LaPine, 70, of Essex, Vermont passed away peacefully Monday, January 4, 2016 as a result of complications from his lifetime battle with Type I Diabetes. He was the only child born to Albert and Frances (Hebert) LaPine, who both predeceased him.

Steve married his high school sweetheart, Bonnie, and they enjoyed many years of love and commitment. Although they would often be seen on opposite sides of the basketball court, it was only because he enjoyed each game with such colorful passion.

Steve was a loyal and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend. Although he was not a sentimental man, his family and friends knew how much he loved them through his actions and presence. He will be missed dearly by his wife, Bonnie; son, Craig of Colchester; daughter, Wendy LaPine Kenny of Jericho; daughter and son-in-law, Carrie & Chris Lee of Burlington; his grandsons Logan, Ray, Draven and great grandson Cody and last, but certainly not least, his beloved canine companions Chloe and Buster. Don’t worry Steve, Chloe is right here safe with us.

Steve was a non materialistic man whose competitive spirit was evident in everything he did. Whether playing volleyball at a family reunion or coaching basketball in a state tournament, he expected nothing less than perfection and victory. There was no such thing as a participation trophy! He had a passion for refinishing antiques and attending local auctions where anyone who bid against him would be hard pressed to walk away with the item. He enjoyed being on the lake, fishing, watching and playing sports, walking and reading history books.

Steve’s second home was IBM in Essex Junction, where his focus and determination helped him excel at his career, which began as a Draftsman and ended after 44 years when he retired as an SEC Program Manager. His dedication and demand for excellence gained him the deserved respect of his colleagues. “Attention To Detail” is an understatement when referring to Steve’s work and personal life as evidenced by his ability to organize a list better than Microsoft Excel, his amazing penmanship and the painstaking care he took in maintaining his driveway. A snowstorm didn’t stand a chance against Steve’s blacktop policy with perfect edges! His shirts always had to have a pocket, on the left side, to carry his notepad and writing instruments in preparation for the next list.

Calling hours will be on Sunday, January 10th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at A.W. Rich Funeral Home, Essex Junction, Vermont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 11th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Church in Essex, Vermont. Inurnment will be scheduled at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations, in Steve’s memory, may be made to SLAMDiabetes, P.O. Box 329, Jericho, Vermont, 05465 or the Humane Society of Chittenden County, 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Vermont, 05403. The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.

In memory of Steve we ask that all coaches play their top five until they get thirty points ahead and then throw on the full court press!