Captain Eugene Tepper

1921 - 2022

Tepper, Captain Eugene
September 25, 1921 - October 11, 2022
Greatest Generation

Eugene X. Tepper, 101, died at his home in Pojoaque, NM surrounded by his loving friends and companions. Survived by his children, Regan and Mark; niece, Diane (Fred), grandchildren Caetlin and Tucker; great-grandchildren Violet, Ezra, and Isaac; and an extended family of cousins. He is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Sheri; brother, Leo (Pauline); and nephew, Gregory. Born to Ida and Morris Tepper, in Denver, CO, where he grew up and attended school. From an early age, his parents knew he was an adventurer, as he "left home" many times to explore the world. In his teens, he enrolled in the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, graduating in 1943 at the height of World War II. Gene captained ships throughout the war, carrying soldiers, vehicles, equipment, and fuel in countless transits across the seas. One of Gene's proudest moments as a Merchant Marine captain occurred in 1948 right after President Harry Truman officially recognized Israel as a nation state, making the U.S. the first country to do so. Gene and his crew were waiting on their ship just outside New York Harbor with an Israeli flag at the ready. Once the news was official, Gene received the order to sail into the harbor with the Israeli flag on full display-it was the first U.S. ship to fly the new nation's flag. After the war, Gene returned to Denver to run the family plumbing and heating business with his brother and father. He also became a passionate real-estate developer, renovating and refurbishing properties in Denver and beyond. In the 1960s, he launched the rustic restaurant and inn, Crystal Lake Lodge, in Pine, CO. In the 1990s, Gene and Sheri retired to Pojoaque to renew and run Rancho Jacona, a historic property dating back to the early 1700s, and a guest ranch. Gene's generosity was legion-he supported numerous institutions and causes and was always ready to help someone in need. All those who knew Gene were attracted to his love of life, his humor, and his kindness. He was well known for popping into restaurants and asking the chef to send out whatever was best that day. If there was an outing, he wanted to take it. If there was someone to visit with, he wanted to visit. He was an avid storyteller, a member of Toastmasters, and a great ballroom dancer. When asked about his recipe for a happy life, he would say, "Take from no man his smile." He brought smiles to all of us. A memorial service is not immediately planned and the family will notify loved ones and friends when a service is scheduled.