Aloma Lee Lapka

Aloma Lee Lapka, was born on October 29, 1942, in Denver, CO, to Rosa Gilliam Joy and Leslie Joy. The family moved to Baldwin Park during her high school years. She met Leland Lapka, her husband of 53 years, when they both worked at a convalescent home; she a cook, and he a relief nurse. She always joked they were together for 57 years, but made him wait to marry her until his enlistment in the Navy was complete. She later worked at the Mattel Toy Factory assembling Barbie Dolls. Aloma and Leland were married at Annunciation Catholic Church in 1967, and purchased a home in Baldwin Park. They welcomed a boy the following year, and a daughter a few years after. Aloma dedicated her time to her mother nearby and the family household. In her later years, Leland was a dedicated caregiver, as Aloma battled Parkinson's disease. Aloma passed away in West Covina, with her family by her side, on August 19, 2020. Aloma is survived by her husband, Leland, children Eric (Maria) and Tabitha (John), granddaughter Brittney Coronado (Keith), and great-granddaughter Athena. She is preceded in death by her three older brothers. There will be a small family gathering at a later time. She will be interred at Forest Lawn, Covina Hills, overlooking the valley. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, whom Aloma always spoke of as her hope to find a cure. www.michaeljfox.org