Walter R. Sapp Jr.

Walter Ronald Sapp Jr., 72, of Pittsburgh, PA peacefully passed from the embrace of his loving family into the embrace of his loving Creator on Sunday, November 6, 2022. He was the much loved husband of Laurie Madson Sapp, brother to Gary (Kim), Mark and the late Bruce T. Sapp, father to Jennifer (Peter), Judith (Rich), Ashley and Andrew, and a beloved grandfather of three. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter R. Sapp and Lois Frishkorn Sapp. 

Growing up in Churchill, Walt was a trailblazing eldest brother, fierce athlete, and football captain his senior year. His athletic excellence and discipline carried him to Bordentown Military Institute (BMI) where he was a co-captain of the football team, Sergeant and Squad Leader, president of BMI Varsity Club, and selected for the All-Prep Football Team, playing defense both years. His acclaim at BMI led to a full football scholarship to Syracuse University, where, as a proud Orangeman, he completed his bachelors degree and prevailed on the field as an esteemed linebacker, defensive end and offensive guard. Teammates turned brothers from all walks of his athletic career characterized him “as tough as they come”.  

Upon graduation, Walter returned to Pittsburgh and followed in his father’s footsteps working in the insurance industry. He started by building his own brokerage, Walter R. Sapp, Jr. Insurance Agency, for 11 years before merging with his father and brother Gary, at Daniel Sapp Boorn (DSB) Associates. As President of DSB, he devoted decades of hard work and found great joy in seeing that people, their homes, and businesses, were provided for and protected. Throughout his successful career he met many wonderful friends with whom he enjoyed great adventures, from hunting and fishing trips across North America to the great outdoors right here in Western Pennsylvania.

Walt served as President of the Pittsburgh Emergency Medical Foundation, President of the Pittsburgh Sportsman Luncheon Club, and was active in other civic-minded organizations. As an adult, Walt continued to enjoy competitive sports through squash, softball, and completing a handful of marathons in Pittsburgh and New York City.

His innate magnetic personality created layers of friendships, networks, and memories that will live on.

Walter will be remembered for his loyal love, protective spirit, unwavering strength, dynamic charisma, unparalleled humor, and passion for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and loved a good round of golf. Whether it was weekends in Ligonier, PA or summer trips to Yankanuck Island on the Georgian Bay in Ontario, Canada, Walt valued time spent surrounded by nature and family.

Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2019, Walt’s wit and grit never wavered as he fought valiantly until he passed just a few weeks shy of his 73rd birthday. Walter will be deeply missed by his family and friends who cherish him deeply. 

A tribute to Walt will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 11am. Arrangements entrusted to WM. SLATER & SONS, INC. (412-381-3345).

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to:

Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation

https://give.themmrf.org/WaltSapp

203-229-0464

PO Box 414238

www.SlaterFuneral.com