Will Hapeman

Will Hapeman, aged 70, died unexpectedly on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Chesapeake, Virginia. He is survived by his loving wife, Dawn Hapeman (née Pace); daughters, Tabitha Hapeman and Melinda Knight; son-in-law, Trevor Knight; and grandchildren, Teygan, Paysen, Nathaniel, and Rosiah. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edith Mae Hapeman (née Williams) and Willis T. Hapeman. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, he earned his journeyman electrician status and supported his community through Hurricane Agnes recovery in 1972 at only 16 years old while partnering with his father at Hapeman Electric. Will graduated from Wilkes University with a bachelor's degree in psychology. He had a varied and multifaceted career, the theme of which was his steadfast support of his wife and children. He served his community as Assistant Chief and Fire Chief of Mt. Zion Bicentennial Fire Department in Exeter Township, PA, and Pastor of Dayspring Bible Chapel before retiring to Virginia Beach to live with his grandchildren. He was a devoted grandfather, animal lover, and friend. Will was a gifted musician, and his singing and guitar playing could often be heard through his home. He will be deeply missed. He loved gardening to support local wildlife and planted a monarch way station to support monarch migration. His community of dog-loving friends at the Western Branch Dog Park was an integral part of recent years, and Will could be found there with his three dogs every weekday morning, unless it was raining. He spent his final years pursuing his passions and caring for his family. A devoted lifelong learner, endlessly curious, and the emotional rock of his family, he will be remembered for his wisdom, guidance, humor, and compassion. Will was a beloved husband and father, a beautiful human being, and a light in the lives of all who met him. His grandchildren will forever remember his teaching them how to fish, use a bow and arrow, canoe, and make tacos. Will is now in the loving arms of Jesus Christ. While he will be greatly missed and forever remembered, his family knows they will be reunited with him again someday. There will be a celebration of life on May 9th at 11 am in the gardens he so loved at his home in Chesapeake. Arrangements for an additional celebration of life in Pennsylvania are forthcoming.