Betty Lapera

Betty Lapera of Newtown, formerly of Danbury and Westport, passed away peacefully in Newtown on September 17.

Born in Westport on June 12, 1946, she was the second daughter of the late Donald and Velma McElwee. Betty was a lifelong resident of Westport until her illness. Last year she became a resident of Ashlar of Newtown where she enjoyed the remainder of her life.

While in Westport, Betty spent as much time as she could enjoying Compo Beach, swimming, boating, and fishing. She could always be found in the early evening at the Compo Playground with her youngest son.

She was a serious NASCAR racing fan and knew many of the drivers personally.

Betty is survived by her three children, Tom Lapera, Jr, of Naugatuck, Shannon Lapera of Norwalk, and Michael Lapera of Newtown; a sister, Marge Costa of Newtown; one nephew, Gary Costa of Newtown, and two fantastic grandsons.

In keeping with her wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes will be distributed over areas she loved.

The Newtown Bee      September 26, 2003