Roger Leppla

It is with great sadness that the family of Roger Warren Leppla announces his passing on Thursday, April 12, 2018, after a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Roger blessed so many lives during his 76 years, including his adored wife, Jan; loving daughter, Lisa Leppla; step daughters, Shelly (Jon) Hill and Terri (Dave) Smith; grandkids, Michael, Kaylee, Nicole, Alec, Lauren, Allie and Austin; great grandkids, Olivia and Owen; sister-in-law, Mary Leppla; and many cherished nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. And we can't forget Clementine, his furry friend, who never left his side. He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Sam Leppla, and sister and brother-in-law, Audrey and Bob Myers.

Roger proudly served our country for 30 years as a Marine and as Chief Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard. He was fondly referred to as "Chief" by all who served with him. He and his military family shared many life experiences together, and he loved to share these stories with anyone who would listen. And if he got a chuckle, he was known to repeat it a few times.

He was a member of Masons Daylight Lodge, The Shriners, and Zuhrah Antique Cars. He made many great friends in these groups and loved to get together with them. He has had a "few" cars throughout the years and tinkering with them was his passion.

Roger lived his life to the fullest, always quick with a joke or story of many of his experiences. His laugh and smile lit up the room and consumed everyone around him. Although he didn't seek to be the center of attention, his infectious personality drew people to him. His accolades were many, but you'd never know it by talking to him. He was a humble and gentle man and was more likely to quietly watch in the background.

A celebration of Roger's life is being held on Saturday, April 21st at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Stillwater, MN with a visitation from 1:00-3:00 PM and a service at 3:00 PM. Please join the family for a dinner following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Our Savior's Lutheran Church and the Shriner's Hospital for Children in Minneapolis.