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James B. Lepper, age 91, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024 at his home in Cohasset, Minnesota.

Jim Lepper was born in Bemidji, Minnesota to Beryl and Susan Lepper on September 29, 1933. 

   Jimmy was drafted into the US Navy during the Korean War and served two years as a Machinist Mate aboard the USS Essex (CV-9).  Jimmy was employed by Northwestern Bell Telephone two years prior to his serving in the US Navy.  Upon returning home, he resumed his employment with Northwestern Bell Telephone.

      Jimmy and Arlette Cook joined hands and hearts to become one.  After working with Bell Telephone where he was assigned to different locations, they returned to Grand Rapids and built a home on Sugar Lake where they raised their three sons.  In 1970, they built their second home on the Mississippi River in West Cohasset where they reside today. During that time, they raised Herford cattle. Jimmy and Arlette were charter members of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cohasset, Minnesota.  

   Upon retirement, Jimmy and Arlette traveled extensively throughout the lower 48 states, Canada, and Alaska. When they were unable to travel to different destinations, Jimmy and Arlette spent their winter months traveling back and forth between Branson, Missouri and Zepherhills, Florida.  

   Jimmy’s family wishes to thank Deer River Hospital and staff, Aveanna Health Care and staff, the Veterans Administration staff and providers, and hospice workers for their care to make it possible for Jimmy to remain at home until his death.   

   Jimmy is survived by his wife, Arlette; their sons, Don and Anne-Marie, Davey and Jodi, and John and Randy; granddaughter, Rachel; great grandson, Sailor; sister, Marlene and family; special loving relationships with Jason, Bethy and their son, Sammy; Jilly Bickford; Chris and Ben. 

   He was preceded in death by his parents, Beryl and Susan Lepper; his in-laws, Wilfred and Leta Cook; Phil and Wannie Kangas, Willard Heikkila and James Schroeder. 

   A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cohasset, Minnesota on Monday, November 4, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. with a service beginning at 2:30 p.m. followed by Veterans Military Honors. 

   Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To   sign   the   online   guestbook   or   send   condolences   visit   www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

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