Dennis R. Lepper, 81

Dennis R. Lepper, 81, of Plover, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, under the care of St. Croix Hospice and surrounded by his loving family. He had battled dementia for several years following a stroke.

Born July 10, 1943, to the late Walter and Ruby (née Philbrick) Lepper, Dennis grew up in Stevens Point and attended local schools. In 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving honorably until 1967. He received the Vietnam Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his service.

On July 6, 1968, Dennis married Irene (née Polum) at St. Bartholomew Church in Mill Creek. Together, they celebrated over 56 years of marriage filled with love and joy.

Dennis retired in 2000 from Foremost Foods in Plover. In his retirement, he found fulfillment working part-time as a janitor at St. Stephen Elementary School, where he formed meaningful bonds with the staff and students.

A devoted family man, Dennis cherished time with his grandchildren and enjoyed family gatherings and their events. He shared his love of the outdoors through hunting, fishing with his best friend Ron Molski, and gardening. Dennis was also known for his enthusiasm for camping, NASCAR, cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers, and the occasional casino visit with an old-fashioned in hand.

Active in his community, Dennis was a member of the Holy Name Society of St. Bronislava Parish, Plover American Legion Post 543, VFW Plover Post 10262, and Knights of Columbus Council 13880 at St. Bronislava Parish.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Irene; two sons, Brian Lepper and Troy (Debbie) Lepper; grandchildren Cole, Kendra, Brooke, Brett Cychosz, and Emalee Petrick; sister Judy Molski; brother Bob (Barbara) Lepper; sisters-in-law Louise Lepper and Cathy Lepper; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father- and mother-in-law Steve and Barbara Polum, and many beloved siblings and in-laws.

The Lepper family extends their gratitude to St. Croix Hospice, Synergy Home Care, and the Veterans Affairs organization for their compassionate care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at St. Bronislava Catholic Church, with Rev. Arturo Vigueras officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday at the Pisarski Community Funeral Home in Plover, and from 9:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Bronislava Church until the time for mass. A parish rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday to conclude the visitation.

The Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.pisarskifuneralhome.com.