Willard Lape Jr.

Willard E. Lape Jr., 74, of Syracuse, died Sunday, 19 September 2004, after a prolonged illness. Mr. Lape worked at WSYR (Radio and TV) for many years before retiring. As "Salty Sam" he was well known for his children's shows and charity work. He was also known as radio and TV personality "Bill Everett", "Epal" from Monster Movie Matinee, and from his role in the cable show "Snuckleby and Friends". In later years he performed as a storyteller at schools, libraries, and local events and did voice characterizations for author Bruce Coville's audio books. Mr. Lape was a graduate of Syracuse University with a BS in Speech and Dramatic Arts and an MS in Broadcasting. Mr. Lape served with the USAF during the Korean war. Surviving: his wife of 48 years, Rosemary Longmire Lape of Syracuse; a daughter and son-in-law, Melanie and Donald Pitts of Fabius; a son and daughter-in-law, Willard III and Celine Lape of PA; a sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Charles Carson of FL; and three grandchildren, Megan and Davis Pitts of Fabius, and Rosemary Lape of PA. Services was held at University United Methodist Church in Syracuse, Wednesday at 2:00 pm.