Herbert Donnold Klepper

KLEPPER, HERBERT DONNOLD Herbert Donnold "Don" Klepper passed away peacefully on January 27, 2009, at 94 years of age. He was born on March 8, 1914, the oldest sibling of five, to Herbert and Helen (Hatch) Klepper, near Pawnee City, NE. Raised in America's heartland, he moved to Kelso, CA in January, 1943, with his wife Dorothy and three children, to work for the Union Pacific Railroad. Thus began his life-long love of trains. He relocated to Spring Valley, CA, in August, 1947, where he resided until his death. He worked for the La Mesa Department of Public Works for 29 years, retiring in 1977, as Superintendent of Maintenance. His loving wife Dorothy, son Bill, grandson Erik Jenson, sister Beth Gage of La Mesa, and brother Kenneth Klepper of Nebraska, preceded him in death. He is survived by son Lee (Maribeth) of La Mesa, CA, son Joe (Kitty) of Spring Valley, CA, daughter Janice Melton (Bill) of La Mesa, CA, daughter Linda Lawton (Don) of Rancho Belago, CA, daughter-in-law Sherry Klepper, seven grandchildren, fourteen great-grand-children, sister Marianne Warner of Hemet, CA, brother Richard (Joan) of Corona, CA, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A prolific rose gardener and "farmer" at heart, Don was known for his yearly harvests of corn, tomatoes, and numerous vegetables. More than one grandchild learned to till the soil at Don's side. "Dad" will be remembered by all for his quiet strength with respect to family values and hard work. A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in La Mesa on Sunday, February 15, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at Greenwood Memorial Cemetery on Monday, February I6, 2009. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Odyssey Hospice, 9444 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123.