Robert Ernest Laprad

Robert Laprad, known to his family & friends as Bob, Bobby, age 85, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus, surrounded by his loving family, on June 5, 2026Born on January 24, 1941, in Salem Virgina. He was the oldest child of Robert Daniel Laprad and Helen Howell Laprad McCarly.. He proudly served his country as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during his service. He began working for Trailways Bus Company, where he formed many lifelong friendships. He later joined Yellow Freight System where he built a distinguished career and retired at the age of 59 after earning countless safe driver awards, including the prestigious Million-Mile Award for his exceptional safety record. Robert attained the honor of Scottish Rite Mason for fifty years and enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. His greatest passion was Genealogy. Long before the age of computers and online records, he spent countless hours visiting cemeteries, courthouses, and archives throughout Virginia, carefully researching and preserving family history. Through his dedication, he compiled a wealth of information that will be treasured by generations to come. A Driver at heart, Robert also earned his Pilot's License and owned his own airplane. He delighted in flying family and friends whenever he had the chance. He loved Motorcycles and especially looked forward each year to Bike Week, where he spent cherished times with friends and family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Above all else, he treasured his family. Affectionately known as "PawPaw", he was deeply loved by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who adored him and brought him immeasurable joy. Along with his parents, he was proceeded in death by his sister & brother-in-law, Sue and Bill Toms; his brothers, Danny & Larry: brother-in-law, Ralph Cook, and his great grandson Matthew Wyatt Taylor. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 64 years, Jody Laprad; children, Linda Taylor (Ronnie), Allen Laprad (Cristi); his grandchildren, Brandon Taylor (Brittany), Emily Duncan (Adam), Madeleine Hall (Derick), Claire Laprad, Mallory Laprad (Matt) and Miller Laprad. His great grandchildren; Jenna, Maximus, Riley, Brody, Jaxon, Owen, Lainey, Maria, Luke & Theo. Sister; Carol Cook; Brother David Laprad (Rhonda); sister-in-law; Carol Laprad; Sister; Pam and his Fur Babies; Dusty & Shadow. The family would like to thank Dr. Syed Haider and his sweet staff, along with Good Samaritan Hospice, for their guidance and kindness during the last months. The family will welcome friends for a period of visitation on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, in Salem. Funeral services will begin directly following, starting at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Paul Hatfield will officiate. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park, also in Salem. Online condolences may be expressed to the LaPrad family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.