Gabriel W. Salapeh

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 4

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, 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.