Bethel Park may rename park in memory of late councilman

John Pape served for over 40 years

Miners Memorial Park in Bethel Park may be renamed to honor Councilman John Pape, who died last week.

“We lost a good friend and councilman,” Mayor Jack Allen said at council’s meeting Monday, where council members paid tribute to Mr. Pape, who had represented Ward 1 on council for more than 40 years.

Mr. Pape, who went by the nickname “Krusher,” died Sept. 8 at the age of 89.

“What an amazing man,” Councilman Mark O’Brien said. “He had the ability to light up a room.”

Mr. O’Brien said Mr. Pape loved to help people, especially veterans and was a “great defender of his beloved people of Ward 1.”

“Bethel Park will miss this tough guy from Mount Wash,” Mr. O’Brien said of the Mount Washington native. “I will miss my friend.”

Mr. Pape, who was the founder and owner of John Pape Floor Covering in South Park, served as council liaison to the Police Civil Service Commission, the Teamsters 205 Grievance Committee, the Police Grievance Committee, the Allegheny League of Municipalities, and the Bethel Park School District.

Mr. Pape served in the Army during World War II as a staff sergeant. In addition to his service to the community, Mr. Allen said he would “always be grateful for his service to the United States of America.”

Councilman Donald Harrison suggested that Miners Memorial Park on Main Street be renamed John Pape Park. The matter will be discussed further at next month’s council meeting.

“He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten,” Councilman Tim Moury said.

Council is seeking to fill the Ward 1 council seat. Applicants must live in Ward 1 and be registered to vote. Applications, which must include a letter of interest and a resume, will be accepted until noon Sept. 29. They may be mailed to William Spagnol, in care of the municipality of Bethel Park, 5100 W. Library Ave., Bethel Park, PA 151022787.

Council will interview prospective candidates Oct. 5.