James "Jim" Leppla

James "Jim" Leppla, 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2026. Born on June 4, 1943, in New London, Wisconsin, he was the son of Harry and Alice (Moder) Leppla.

On June 5, 1965, Jim married Jacqueline "Jackie" Bociek. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and service. They recently celebrated their 61st anniversary surrounded by family and friends.

If there was one word that defined Jim's life, it was service. Whether serving his country, his community, his church, or a neighbor in need, Jim believed that helping others was simply what you did.

Jim proudly served as a Sergeant in the United States Army before dedicating more than four decades to serving his community through the Grand Chute Lions Club. Throughout his years of service, Jim generously gave his time and talents in countless ways. He chaired the club's beloved Pancake Breakfast, cared for the Medina Cemetery, and led the wheelchair ramp committee for more than 30 years. Under his leadership, more than 500 wheelchair ramps were built, helping local residents safely remain in their homes. In recognition of his extraordinary commitment to service, Jim was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship in 2002, the highest honor bestowed by Lions Clubs International.

His servant's heart extended to his faith as an active member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, where he served on numerous committees and participated in mission trips. He was also a dedicated blood donor for more than 50 years, donating over 13 gallons of blood, another quiet but powerful reflection of his lifelong commitment to helping others, whether he knew them or not.

Jim was equally passionate about his work. A custom home builder for more than 30 years, he took tremendous pride in delivering exceptional craftsmanship and building homes where families would create lasting memories. Named Builder of the Year in 1998 he earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike through his unwavering commitment to quality. Even after retiring in 2008, his tool belt was never far away. Whether helping family, friends, or neighbors with a project, Jim's generosity, knowledge, and work ethic were evident in everything he built.

While Jim's accomplishments were many, it was his personality that people will remember most. His quick wit and a playful sense of humor could brighten any room. He loved teasing those he cared about, sharing a laugh, and striking up conversations with complete strangers. Jim had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcomed.

Above all else, Jim loved his family. The family he and Jackie raised together was his greatest source of pride and joy. Time spent with his children, grandchildren, and newborn great-grandson, Bryson, was life's greatest blessing.

Jim is lovingly survived by his wife, Jackie; his children, Randy Leppla (Isabel Tamayo), Stacy Leppla (Bob Singler), and Jamie (Jeff) Hanson; and former daughter-in-law, Anne Leppla. He was a proud grandfather to Mallory (Alex), Alec (Jessica), Shyann, Brett, Devyn, and Taryn, and cherished becoming a great-grandfather to Bryson. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Alice Leppla; and his four sisters, Betty (Harry) Arndt, Carolyn (Sollie Solomon, John) Langner, Carla (Ron) Wege, and Donna (LaVern) Warmbier.

A heartfelt thank you to Mary Wagner, the caring staff at Frontida and Bristol Hospice for the compassion, dignity, and comfort provided to Jim and his family.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 3009 N. Meade Street, Appleton, with Pastor Kemp Jones officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Jim will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton, WI.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Grand Chute Lions Club or The Community Blood Center, organizations that reflect Jim's lifelong commitment to serving others.